A long-standing design issue threatening to delay Mumbai Metro Line 7A’s elevated viaduct near the airport appears to be approaching a resolution. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) had faced the possibility of reconstructing nearly one kilometre of the elevated corridor, involving work estimated at around Rs 2.5 billion. Construction on the affected stretch had come close to a halt since early 2025.
Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), which operates the airport, has completed a site survey indicating that the additional 2.5 metres required to accommodate the overhead electrification system would not interfere with aircraft flight paths. However, formal written approval from the Airports Authority of India (AAI), including revised height-clearance no-objection certificates, is still awaited.
The elevated viaduct and ramp near Vile Parle East fall within the airport’s funnel zone, where structures must comply with stringent height restrictions to protect aircraft operations. During the planning stage, MMRDA’s consultant, Systra, reportedly failed to factor in the extra height needed for the overhead electric (OHE) system. The resulting design shortfall was identified in early 2025, severely affecting construction progress.
MIAL conducted its survey alongside the introduction of a new Instrument Landing System, known as ILS2. The findings and recommendations have been forwarded to the AAI, which is expected to undertake its own assessment before updating the relevant aviation clearances. Although MMRDA has yet to receive formal written permission, officials expect the approval process to move forward. Meanwhile, construction has resumed at the Airport Colony station.
Despite the progress on the height-clearance issue, other construction challenges continue to affect Line 7A. Work on the underground stations has encountered difficulties after their locations were shifted slightly for technical reasons. The revised sites are situated near a nallah, creating additional engineering complications and making an early opening difficult.
A representative of the contractor indicated that these challenges remain unresolved. No official opening date has been announced for the affected section. The project’s completion will depend on securing the necessary aviation clearances and addressing the remaining construction hurdles.
Source: Construction World
