A significant expansion of Mumbai’s suburban transport infrastructure has been approved, with administrative clearance granted for the extension of Metro Line 12 along the Kalyan–Shilphata Road. The project, estimated at ₹8,414.53 crore, is to be implemented as Metro 12A and is intended to strengthen connectivity between Kalyan Phata and Taloja in Navi Mumbai. The corridor, measuring 18.4 kilometres, has been planned to run parallel to the existing arterial road, which has long been burdened by heavy traffic congestion.
It has been indicated that approximately 10.5 kilometres of the alignment are already under construction under the original Metro Line 12 project. The extended section is to merge with the existing corridor near Khutare Village before proceeding further towards Taloja. Several key localities, including Manpada, Katai Naka, Kalyan Growth Center and Rohinjan, are expected to benefit from improved metro access.
Infrastructure integration has been emphasised as a core component of the plan. Shared tracks and stations have been proposed between Katai Naka and Kalyan Phata with the upcoming Metro Line 14 corridor. Connectivity with the Nilje depot and linkages with other metro lines across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region are also to be established, thereby creating a more interconnected urban transit network.
During a recent review of infrastructure projects in the Kalyan constituency, the progress of Metro Line 12 and associated works was assessed. Directions were reportedly issued for the acceleration of ongoing construction to ensure timely completion. It has been stated that the Metro 12A extension is expected to reduce vehicular pressure on the Kalyan–Shilphata Road and enhance travel efficiency between Kalyan-Dombivli, Navi Mumbai and surrounding areas.
In a parallel development, approval has also been granted for a 19.40-kilometre double-decker elevated corridor between Kalyan Phata and Rajnoli in Bhiwandi, at an estimated cost of ₹5,909.21 crore. The structure has been designed with vehicular lanes on the lower deck and a metro alignment on the upper deck. Eight entry and exit ramps, two railway overbridges and bridge structures over Desai Creek and the Ulhas river are to be constructed as part of the project.