The much-anticipated first phase of the Mumbai Metro Aqua Line is set to open in October 2024, according to Ashwini Bhide, the managing director of the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC). This announcement was made during a press conference on September 24.

The initial 12.5 km segment will run from Aarey Colony to the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) and is expected to commence operations soon, pending safety approvals. This line is part of a larger 33.5 km project connecting Colaba, Seepz, and Aarey.

Key Details About the Aqua Line

• Stations: The Aarey to BKC stretch will feature 10 stations. It will provide connectivity to both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, as well as linking to Metro Line 1 at Marol Naka station.
• Services: The Aqua Line will operate 96 services daily between Aarey and BKC, with trains running from 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM. On Sundays, the first train will depart at 8:30 AM.
• Ticket Fare: The ticket prices will range from ₹10 to ₹50 for the Aqua Line. Once the entire Colaba-Seepz-Aarey corridor is completed, the maximum fare will be Rs.70.
• Capacity: The first phase of the Aqua Line can accommodate approximately 650,000 passengers each day.
• Metro Staff: The train operations will be managed by a team of 48 drivers, including 10 women, with plans for increased female representation in the operation and maintenance sectors once the line is operational.
• Train Speed: The Metro trains are designed to travel at speeds of up to 85 km/h, with an average running speed of 35 km/h.

Current Status and Future Plans

Bhide mentioned that they are awaiting final approvals for the rail line's operations, although the necessary approvals for the trains have already been granted. Approximately 93% of the corridor construction is complete, with the entire Aarey to Colaba line expected to be operational by March or May 2025.

It is anticipated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Aarey-BKC route in the first week of October, alongside other infrastructure projects in the state.

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