Mumbai Metro Expansion: Rs 18,131 Crore Boost for Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan Connectivity
In a significant development for urban mobility, the Maharashtra state government has granted revised approval for Metro Line 5, its extension, and the newly proposed Line 5A, elevating the total project cost to a substantial Rs 18,131 crore. This integrated corridor, to be executed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), is poised to dramatically improve public transport connectivity across key areas including Thane, Bhiwandi, Kalyan, and Ulhasnagar.
Evolution of Metro Line 5: From 2017 to Revised 2025 Plan
Originally sanctioned in 2017 as a 25-kilometer elevated corridor, Metro Line 5 has undergone multiple design revisions primarily due to challenges in land acquisition and rehabilitation, particularly in Bhiwandi and Kalyan. A pivotal change approved in June 2023 involved converting a portion between Durgadi and Kalyan into an underground stretch, which significantly contributed to the increased costs. The revised plan was finalized after a high-level review chaired by the Chief Minister in June 2025, with authorities opting for partial underground construction in critical stretches to avoid large-scale demolition and minimize traffic congestion.
Project Phases and Engineering Innovations
Officials report that Phase 1 of the project, spanning from Kapur Bawdi to Dhamankar Naka, is nearing completion with minimal resettlement hurdles. Phase 2, which extends up to Durgadi, will feature a hybrid alignment, including an underground section between Dhamankar Naka and Temghar to reduce disruption in densely populated areas. A major engineering highlight will be a double-decker structure integrating a flyover and metro line between Ranjnoli Junction and Durgadi, designed to ease congestion while optimizing costs.
New Corridors: Line 5 Extension and Line 5A
The earlier plan to extend the line to Kalyan APMC has been scrapped and replaced with a new corridor comprising the Metro Line 5 extension and Line 5A. This addition will link Durgadi to Ulhasnagar via Aadharwadi, Khadakpada, and Bhoirwadi, expected to improve access to emerging residential hubs and provide a crucial alternative for commuters reliant on road transport and indirect rail routes.
Political and Community Response
Bhiwandi MLA Rais Sheikh emphasized that the project will offer residents a faster and more reliable transit option, addressing long-standing mobility issues. Bhiwandi MP Suresh Mhatre welcomed the inclusion of the double-decker flyover, noting that his persistent demand had been accepted after discussions with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. He stated that this innovative design would effectively alleviate congestion while maintaining cost efficiency.
Key Features of the Revised Metro Plan:
- Total project cost increased to Rs 18,131 crore
- Hybrid alignment with underground sections in densely populated areas
- Double-decker structure combining flyover and metro line
- New corridors connecting Durgadi to Ulhasnagar via key localities
- Focus on minimizing demolition and traffic disruption
This comprehensive metro expansion represents a transformative step in enhancing public transport infrastructure within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, promising to reshape commuting patterns and support urban growth in the coming years.
