By July, commuters might have the opportunity to travel on the underground Metro train from Aarey to Bandra-Kurla Complex, provided everything progresses as planned. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation anticipates the commencement of phase I of Mumbai Metro Line 3 commercial operations on this route by July. Completion of necessary dry runs has been confirmed, and the agency is currently awaiting assessments and approvals. It has been stated that the Metro agency is prepared to conduct over 260 services using its fleet of 19 trains.
Once Metro Line 3 becomes fully operational, it is projected to cater to approximately 1.7 million passengers on a daily basis, with trains scheduled to operate every three to four minutes and accommodating around 2,500 passengers per trip. It is noted that this line will be Mumbai's sole entirely underground metro, significantly enhancing the city's transportation network. The initial phase of the 12-kilometer-long Metro 3 underground corridor will stretch from Aarey to Bandra-Kurla Complex.
The overall Aqua Line (Line-3) of Mumbai Metro, which is a 33.5 km under-construction metro line with 27 stations, connecting Cuffe Parade, Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), and Aarey Colony, was discussed. Initially, it was planned by the Metro agency to commence phase one operations in May, however, the deadline was missed due to several factors. Currently, the Research, Design & Standards Organisation (RDSO), responsible for assessment testing and operational approval, is expected to arrive in the first week of June to assess the Metro 3 system.
Reports state that heavy load tests on Metro trains have already been conducted, which involved placing gunny bags of debris on board the trains to simulate passenger loads between BKC and Aarey. These trials reportedly achieved success, with trains reaching speeds of up to 95 km/hr. Following this, the RDSO will assess the entire system, including safety and performance tests such as braking systems, acceleration and deceleration rates, and emergency response mechanisms. Inspections will also cover the quality and stability of tracks and related infrastructure, alignment, welding quality, and structural integrity.
Preceding these 'loaded' trials, similar tests had been carried out with empty coaches at speeds of up to 95 km/hr. Progress on this route is stated to be nearly complete, with only minor finishing touches required at stations and entry and exit points. Following the successful completion of integration trials and acquisition of safety certifications, the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRCL) will seek approval from the Independent Safety Assessor for safe train operations. Commercial operations will only commence after obtaining all necessary approvals, ensuring full compliance with safety regulations and operational standards.
Earlier announcements from MMRCL stated that work on the Aarey depot is nearing completion in preparation for Phase 1 operations of Metro 3 between Aarey and Bandra-Kurla Complex. Integrated trial runs for Phase 1 operations have already commenced, and the MMRCL is expected to invite the RDSO soon to oversee crucial aspects of the trials and commissioning. A spokesperson mentioned that only minor finishing works, testing, and trials of the system are currently ongoing. While the depot is ready, the Operations and Control Centre for Phase 1 will not be fully operational. Instead, a backup Operations and Control Centre at Bandra-Kurla Complex will manage the initial operations.
