Union Cabinet Approves Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light to the Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project (IRMRP). This project, led by the Maharashtra Metro Railway Corporation Limited (MMRCL), is a significant development for the metropolitan region. With a focus on modern infrastructure, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of enhancing comfort and convenience for the people of Maharashtra.
Key Supporters of the Project
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri, and former MoHUA Minister Manohar Lal Khattar for their support of the Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project. He highlighted the positive impact the project will have on connectivity within the city.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also expressed his appreciation for Prime Minister Modi’s approval of the project. Fadnavis recognized the substantial benefits of the Thane Integral Ring Metro, including the reduction of traffic congestion and environmental benefits, as well as its contribution to further development in the region.
Solving Commuting Challenges for Thane Residents
The Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project aims to address the commuting difficulties faced by Thane residents. The 29-kilometer-long corridor will serve as a crucial link by connecting key areas in and around Thane. It will feature 22 stations along the western side of the city, enabling easy access to both the new and old Thane railway stations within an hour of travel time.
Approximately 26 kilometers of the route will be elevated, while the remaining portion will be underground. This project is essential in connecting remote residential and commercial hubs such as Wagle Estate, Ghodbunder, Kolshet, and Saket with the old and new railway stations. Additionally, it will provide a convenient connection to Mumbai and Kalyan through the ongoing metro lines 4 and 5.
A Boost to Infrastructure and Transportation
The Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project is expected to begin operations by 2029. The implementation of this metro corridor will bring relief to commuters and contribute to the overall development of the region.
For the convenience of passengers, each of the six-coach rakes will have an estimated carrying capacity of 1,500 people. The metro services will be available in both directions at 15-minute intervals, completing the loop within an hour. It is projected that by 2045, the metro corridor will serve around 872,000 daily passengers.
Funding and Environmental Contribution
The estimated cost of the Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project is Rs 122 billion. Both the state and central governments will jointly finance the project, with additional funds raised through various strategies. These include the sale of station names, access rights for corporations, monetization of assets, and value capture financing routes. Furthermore, the project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making it an environmentally efficient transportation option.
Future Progress and Benefits of the Project
The Maharashtra Metro Railway Corporation Limited (MMRCL) has announced that preparations for floating tenders will begin soon. The Thane IRMRP will bring significant benefits to millions of daily city commuters, particularly those traveling from distant locations. By improving connectivity to major business hubs, the Thane metro will serve as a highly efficient and cost-effective transport option for employees.
The project heralds the ushering in of modern infrastructure in Maharashtra, honoring the state’s commitment to provide its residents with a seamless travel experience. The Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project will not only facilitate faster and more convenient transportation but also contribute to the development and progress of the region as a whole.
