MUMBAI (Metro Rail & Steel): The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) is making significant strides toward the launch of Phase I operations for the Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ Metro-3 line. A crucial addition to this ambitious project is the arrival of the ninth train set, which is scheduled to reach the Aarey car shed by 1st November 2023.
This development brings MMRC closer to its goal of connecting Aarey to the Bandra-Kurla Complex with an efficient underground corridor, promising a quick 25-minute travel time for commuters. The strategy includes running a total of 110 services along the 12km Phase I route. To accommodate these train sets, MMRC has already established stabling lines at the depot.
A representative from MMRC announced, “The rake has now reached the outskirts of Mumbai.” These train sets are slated for trials in mid-November, following which MMRC will approach the Research, Design and Standards Organization (RDSO) for their assessments. Successful completion of the RDSO trials will pave the way for an inspection from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) to evaluate the network’s safety. Once CMRS provides the green light, commercial operations can commence.
The 33.5-km long Metro-3 corridor is the first underground metro corridor in Mumbai, connecting the Cuffe Parade business district in the south to SEEPZ in the north-central, with 26 underground and one at-grade station. Initially, these trains will operate with a pilot onboard, but MMRC plans to request CMRS approval to transition to fully driverless operations after a few months of operation.
The project achieved a significant milestone on October 7, with a successful initial trial run covering a distance of approximately 17km between the MIDC-Vidyanagari-Seepz Metro stations.
Notably, the new train sets are equipped with an unattended train operation (UTO) system, enabling automation of starting, stopping, door operations, and emergency handling without onboard staff. Train health is continuously monitored from the control room to ensure they can operate in a driverless mode. Additionally, the Metro 3 Aqua line trainsets feature a regenerative braking system, contributing to a more sustainable transportation system.
Initially planned for a December launch this year, Phase I operations will now be delayed until next year due to the trial run scheduled for November. Similarly, the second phase between BKC and Colaba, initially set to begin around May 2024, will also face delays.
