Editor’s Note
The final phase of Mumbai’s Metro Line 3 is undergoing crucial safety inspections. If approved, the entire Colaba–Aarey corridor could open to the public in the coming weeks.
The Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) on Friday carried out the preliminary inspection of the final phase of the corridor between Worli and Cuffe Parade station.
Officials said the CMRS team will submit its inspection report next week. Based on the findings, the board will return for a final safety review of the pending 10.99 km stretch. If clearances are granted, the entire 33.5-km Colaba–Aarey line could open by the end of September or early October.
A senior Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) official said any suggestions from the preliminary inspection would be addressed promptly before the final CMRS visit.
Currently, services are operational on the 22.46-km section between Aarey and Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli. Trial runs have been ongoing since April on the last leg up to Cuffe Parade. The final phase will add 11 more stations, making the line fully functional.
Once open, Metro-3 will provide direct connectivity from Colaba to Worli, Santacruz, the airport, and Aarey, reducing reliance on local trains. At present, commuters traveling to Colaba have to alight at CSMT or Churchgate and continue by bus or taxi. The new line promises a seamless, end-to-end ride—finally connecting previously unconnected parts of the city.