The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) has made significant progress in finalizing the detailed project report (DPR) for the Airport Express Line Metro. Once operational, this ambitious metro corridor will connect the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) with the existing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), offering enhanced connectivity and convenience to commuters.
Key Features of the Metro Line
The proposed metro line will span a total length of 34 km, with 25.8 km of elevated tracks and an 8.2-km underground section. The route will feature 20 stations, consisting of 14 elevated and six underground stops. The project aims to handle a daily ridership of 22.7 lakh passengers by 2061, with a peak hour peak direction traffic (PHPDT) of 37,000 commuters, setting a new benchmark for Mumbai’s transportation system.
Seamless Connectivity and Integration
The Airport Express Line Metro is designed to improve east-west connectivity in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). By integrating with the existing metro and suburban rail networks, along with key bus terminals, this alignment will enhance access to major economic zones, institutional areas, and emerging commercial hubs. This transformation will significantly reduce travel time, alleviate traffic congestion, and boost economic activity between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.
Collaboration and Timeline
The project, estimated to cost Rs 150 billion, is a collaborative effort between CIDCO and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). MMRDA, in partnership with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), will manage the construction of the 11.1-kilometer stretch from CSMIA to Mankhurd, while CIDCO will extend the line from Mankhurd to NMIA.
