Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Phase 2B of the Mumbai Metro Line-3, known as the Aqua Line, marking the full operationalization of the city's first entirely underground rapid transit system. The 10.99-km extension from Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli to Cuffe Parade, built at a cost of ₹12,200 crore, connects South Mumbai's business and heritage districts to the suburbs. This final phase, part of the ₹37,270 crore project, was dedicated to the nation during Modi's two-day Maharashtra visit, which also included the launch of the Navi Mumbai International Airport and other infrastructure initiatives. Regular services are set to commence on October 9, enhancing connectivity for millions of commuters amid Mumbai's growing urban demands.
The Aqua Line spans 33.5 km with 27 stations, all underground except the at-grade Aarey Colony depot, traversing key areas from Colaba to SEEPZ via Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). Phase 1 (Aarey JVLR to BKC, 12.69 km) opened in October 2024, followed by Phase 2A (BKC to Acharya Atre Chowk, 9.31 km) in May 2025. Phase 2B adds eight stations: Science Museum, Mahalaxmi, Mumbai Central, Grant Road, Girgaon, Kalbadevi, CSMT, and Hutatma Chowk, culminating at Cuffe Parade and Vidhan Bhavan.
The route integrates with existing lines at stations like Dadar and Santacruz, while proximity to Churchgate and CSMT offers seamless links to local trains. Designed with driverless trains and advanced tunneling, it aims to slash travel times—reducing the Cuffe Parade to Aarey JVLR journey from 1-2 hours by road to under one hour—and ease congestion on Western Express Highway by diverting 3.5 lakh vehicles daily.
Fares for the Aqua Line operate on a distance-based slab system, promoting affordability across its full length. Commuters traveling up to 3 km pay ₹10, while those covering 3-12 km are charged ₹20; longer segments up to 21 km cost ₹30, and the maximum fare of ₹50 applies for journeys beyond that to Aarey. Tickets can be purchased via the MetroConnect3 app, smart cards from partnering banks, or at station kiosks, supporting contactless payments.
Peak-hour frequency stands at every five minutes, with 280 daily trips ensuring smooth flow. Services run from 5:55 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., accommodating up to 13 lakh passengers daily once at full capacity, bolstered by nine initial trains operating 96 round trips.
Also Read: Mumbai Metro Line 3 - Aqua Line’s Last Phase Opens October 8 With 27 Stations
The Aqua Line's completion represents a transformative leap for Mumbai's mobility, fostering economic growth in commercial hubs like BKC and Worli while preserving heritage sites through underground routing. Experts anticipate a 35% drop in road traffic and significant real estate uplift along the corridor, with commercial spaces already leased to brands like Tata Trent.
As the city grapples with population pressures, this eco-friendly line—equipped with energy-efficient features—aligns with sustainable urban goals. Modi's inauguration underscores the government's push for modern infrastructure, promising relief to daily commuters and positioning Mumbai as a global transit leader.
Also Read: PM Modi to Inaugurate New Delhi BJP Office with Havan Ceremony