Mumbai metro lines 2A and 7 will soon be fully operational for commuters operating partially on a 20 km stretch running between Aarey and Dhanukarwadi. There is also a significant relief for Navi Mumbai commuters as the long-awaited Navi Mumbai Metro Line is expected to start commercial operation soon. According to a source, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Mumbai on January 19 to inaugurate Metro Line 2A, 7, and Navi Mumbai Metro. There are also some other significant projects which will also be inaugurated by him.
However, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis are scheduled to go to Davos to participate in Davos’ World Economic Forum between January 15 and 19. There is a possibility that they may change their plan to visit Davos or may come back early for the metro inauguration.
Once Metro lines 2A and 7 lines are fully operational, it will greatly relieve commuters traveling on these routes. Both lines cover a total length of 35 km stretch, running between D.N Nagar and Andheri East. Both lines will interconnect at Metro Line 1 and Metro Line 6.
According to Maha Mumbai Metro Operations Corporation Ltd (MMMOCL), Metro lines 2A and 7 will carry nearly 3 lakh passengers per day. Currently, the footfall for both these lines is about 25,000 commuters per day, which is considerably less than the estimation. However, once both metro lines start their complete operation, it may ease traffic congestion on Wester Express highway and Link road.
According to the official, Metro Line 2A and 7 have completed all necessary tests and trials and are ready to be opened for commercial operation. However, Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is trying to finalize the dates for the inauguration of these lines and Navi Mumbai Metro.