Mira Bhayandar Metro scheduled to be launched in 2 Phases, says MMRDA.
In a recent development, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has informed that the construction work on Metro Line 9, connecting Dahisar to Mira-Bhayander, is progressing steadily. The project, awarded to M/s. J. Kumar Infrastructure Ltd in September 2019, has achieved 87% completion.
According to MMRDA, the internal works of stations and metro track work are currently underway. The authority has appointed M/s SYSTRA CEG-SMCIPL, a renowned international consultancy team, to supervise the project's construction.
The Metro Line 9 project is scheduled to be launched in two phases. The first phase, connecting Dahisar to Kashigaon, is expected to be completed by December 2024. The second phase, linking Kashigaon to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Stadium Station, is slated for completion by December 2025.
Metro Line 7 is interconnected with Line 9, ensuring no operational challenges in running services until the Dongri depot is completed, according to officials. In the interim, MMRDA will rely on the Charkop depot, currently serving Metro lines 2A and 7 (Andheri West-Dahisar-Gundavali).
Originally, the depot was planned on land spread across Morva, Raimurdhe, and Murdhe villages. However, this area is partially in a residential zone and a no-development zone. Additionally, villagers opposed the project, claiming around 547 families would lose their homes if the car shed and 100-ft road were constructed on the 32-acre site.
Since the Dongri village land for depot belongs to the government, MMRDA will not incur any acquisition costs. However, there will be an additional expense of Rs 250 crore to Rs 300 crore for extending the line and constructing one or two stations between Subhash Chandra Bose Ground and Uttan, as the Dongri site is nearly 5 km from the initially proposed location.
Also, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has decided to implement Multi-Modal Integration (MMI) facilities at stations on the Metro Line 9. Efficient dispersal by all modes of transport and last mile connectivity could be planned with MMI which will not only relieve the commuters, but also enhance non-motorised transport (NMT) and public transport (PT) share.
“The tenders for the project were divided into two packages. While the Package 1 was awarded to M/s Gajanan Construction, the Package 2 has been awarded to the joint venture of M/s N A Construction Pvt Ltd and M/s PRS Infra,” the official said.
As per MMI plan, the station influence area will be redesigned for efficient and safe dispersal of traffic and commuters. This includes restructuring/ reconfiguration of Right of Way (ROW) i.e. carriageways and footpaths, shifting/re-routing of ground and underground utilities (if required), street lights, shifting of bus stops, providing pickup-drop off bays for buses/IPTs/private vehicles, dedicated metro feeder through e-vehicles, wayfinding maps, signages, traffic signals/signal cycles, CCTV surveillance, beautification, street furniture and PBS infrastructure.
“To enhance accessibility, safety, and mobility (last-mile connectivity) at eight metro stations of Metro Line 9, we have initiated the implementation of MMI facilities. With the metro line in an advanced stage, these MMI works are crucial for efficient dispersal and last-mile connectivity,” a senior MMRDA official said.
The Authority also appointed the joint venture of M/s. Rithwik and Soma for the development of depot land and construction of depot infrastructure at Dongri for Metro Line 9.
The Mumbai Metro Line 9 spans 11.38 km comprising 8 elevated stations. This extension will connect the Western Express Highway, Western Railway, ongoing Metro Line 2A (Dahisar to D N Nagar), and Metro Line 7 (Andheri (E) to Dahisar (E)), offering convenient rail-based access to commercial hubs, government institutions, and notable landmarks across Mumbai.
With anticipated travel time reductions ranging from 50% to 75%, depending on road conditions. The Dahisar-Mira Bhayander Metro Line 9 is expected to significantly enhance connectivity and transportation infrastructure in the region.
