Maharashtra Government Greenlights Major Mumbai Metro Airport Link
The Maharashtra state government has officially approved the ambitious Rs 22,862-crore Mumbai Metro Line-8 project, a critical infrastructure initiative designed to connect Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) with the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). This decision marks a significant step forward in enhancing urban transport connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
Comprehensive Funding and Implementation Framework
Under the approved funding structure, the project will receive substantial financial support through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The government has cleared a 40% viability gap funding, with the Centre and the state each contributing 20% of the total cost, amounting to Rs 3,446 crore apiece. The remaining balance will be invested by a private concessionaire under a design, build, finance, operate, and transfer (DBFOT) basis.
Key financial contributions include:
- Navi Mumbai International Airport Ltd will provide Rs 564 crore.
- The private concessionaire's share is set at Rs 9,773 crore.
- Cidco, the implementing agency, will bear land acquisition and rehabilitation costs estimated at Rs 2,393 crore.
The total project cost encompasses escalation and interest during construction, ensuring a robust financial plan for the long-term development.
Project Specifications and Environmental Clearances
The Mumbai Metro Line-8 will span 34.9 kilometers, featuring a combination of underground and elevated stretches. Specifically, the corridor will include 9.8 kilometers of underground sections and 25.09 kilometers of elevated tracks, with a total of 20 stations—14 elevated and six underground.
In a move to facilitate the project, the government has permitted the transfer of 27.2 hectares of reserved forest land at Mandale for the construction of a metro car depot. This clearance underscores the project's priority in balancing infrastructure development with environmental considerations.
Construction Timeline and Passenger Projections
Construction activities are scheduled to commence in June 2026 and are expected to be completed by May 2031. Once operational, the metro line is projected to serve approximately 9.82 lakh passengers daily by 2031, with this number anticipated to rise to 17.7 lakh by 2061, highlighting its long-term utility and growth potential.
Proposed fare structure for 2031 ranges from Rs 15 to Rs 125, subject to review before commissioning, ensuring affordability and accessibility for commuters.
Strategic Importance and Regional Impact
Declared as an important urban transport initiative, the Mumbai Metro Line-8 aims to significantly strengthen airport connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. By linking two major international airports, the project is set to reduce travel time, ease traffic congestion, and boost economic activity, positioning Mumbai as a more connected and efficient metropolitan hub.
