In a significant development for Mumbai’s urban transportation landscape, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is actively pursuing an extension of the Mumbai Metro Line 9 (Red Line). This expansion aims to cater to the growing need for efficient mass transit and address the operational challenges currently faced by the city’s metro network.
The proposed extension, spanning approximately 4.9 km, will link the existing Subhash Chandra Bose Ground Station to the newly identified train maintenance depot in Dongri, Thane District. This expansion plan includes the construction of two strategically located elevated stations at Murdha and Rai Goan on Uttan Road.
Dongri Depot will serve as a pivotal facility for stable operations and maintenance of BEML trains, contributing to the seamless functioning of the entire Red Line. The Red Line connects key locations, including Dongri, Mira Bhayandar, Dahisar East, Gundavali, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Terminal 2.
The project’s extension into the Dongri area is subject to Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance. While the majority of the land earmarked for the depot is not affected by CRZ, some segments of the extended alignment fall within CRZ categories, such as CRZ IA (50M Mangrove Buffer), CRZ IB, and CRZ-II areas.
MMRDA submitted its application for CRZ clearance on September 18. Maharashtra’s Coastal Zone Management Authority has initiated an examination of this application, seeking further clarification through an official Essential Details Sought (EDS) letter.
The extension of Line 9 and the establishment of Dongri Depot are essential steps to relieve the Charkop Depot, which currently shares its resources with the Yellow Line. This move is geared toward enabling high-frequency train operations and enhancing the overall efficiency of the metro system.
While these plans are indeed promising, they are still in the early stages of development, with numerous approvals, funding arrangements, and bidding processes to navigate. As such, construction on this extension is anticipated to commence no earlier than mid-2025.
With this expansion, the Red Line will undergo a transformative change, expanding to a total length of 35.95 km, divided into four distinct sections. This expansion is set to enhance connectivity and further solidify Mumbai’s commitment to developing a modern, efficient, and extensive metro network.