Mumbai Metro Aqua Line 3 Route Map & Stations: Mumbai’s long-awaited underground Metro Line 3 is set to transform the city’s transport landscape. Slated for partial inauguration this month by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the first phase of the Aqua Line will open, covering a 12-km stretch between Aarey Colony and Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). This phase will feature 10 operational stations, providing a significant boost to daily commuting in the city’s busy areas.
Key Details of the Aqua Line
The fully completed Metro Line 3 will span 33.5 km, linking southern, central, and western Mumbai through 27 stations. The first operational stretch between Aarey and BKC is expected to reduce traffic congestion, especially in the western suburbs, as it offers seamless connectivity to major business hubs and the international airport.
Once the entire line becomes operational, the Aqua Line will connect key areas like Nariman Point, Mumbai Central, Worli, Dadar, and provide direct access to Mumbai International Airport. Commuters will also benefit from reduced travel times and improved convenience, especially in high-traffic zones like Santacruz and Ghatkopar.
Operational Plans
This phase will see nine trains, each consisting of eight cars, carrying approximately 2,500 passengers per train. A total of 96 trips will be conducted each day, with the operational hours set between 6:30 AM and 10:30 PM on weekdays, and 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM on weekends.
The Aqua Line will also feature advanced technology, including driverless train operations overseen by 48 trained captains, offering modern, efficient, and eco-friendly urban transport.
Fare Structure and Future Expansion
While the official fare structure for the Aqua Line is yet to be confirmed, it is expected to align with existing metro lines, with estimated fares ranging between ₹10 and ₹40, depending on the distance traveled. The initial phase will use paper tickets with QR codes, with future plans for NCMC cards for a more seamless commuting experience.
Expanding Mumbai’s Metro Network
Originally planned for completion in 2021, the Metro Line 3 faced delays due to environmental challenges and construction setbacks. However, with the opening of this phase, the Aqua Line becomes an integral part of the city’s expanding metro network, which includes 14 planned lines designed to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity throughout Mumbai.
The opening of the Aqua Line marks a major milestone in Mumbai’s journey towards a modernized, efficient public transport system that can cater to the needs of millions of commuters.