The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is working on several metro lines across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. To speed up progress, especially with the aim to commission the first phase of selected corridors by December, MMRDA has introduced a manpower policy and increased workforce deployment.
As a result, manpower has increased by 17% to 37% on corridors such as, Metro 2B (Andheri West to Mandale), Metro 4 and 4A (Wadala–Thane–Kasarvadavali–Gaimukh), Metro 9 (Dahisar to Mira-Bhayandar).
Upcoming Commissioning Targets
Currently, MMRDA is working on the following metro lines: Metro 2B, Metro 4, Metro 4A, Metro 5 (Thane–Bhiwandi–Kalyan), Metro 6 (Swami Samarth Nagar–Vikhroli), Metro 7A (Andheri East–Mumbai Airport), and Metro 9
MMRDA plans to begin services by the end of this year on the following first-phase segments: Diamond Garden to Mandale (Metro 2B), Cadbury Junction to Gaimukh (Metro 4 and 4A), Dahisar to Kashigaon (Metro 9)
Preliminary inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have already been completed for Metro 2B and Metro 9 segments. Daily trial runs of trains are underway.
Also Read: Mumbai: Crowds on Metro 1 May Soon Be Eased; Four-Coach Metro Likely to Become Six-Coach
Manpower Shortage and New Penalty Policy
Earlier, delays were noted due to shortage of manpower. To address this, MMRDA implemented a strict manpower policy. If manpower is short by 25% to 50%, contractors are fined INR 1 lakh per day and if the shortfall exceeds 50%, the fine will be INR 2 lakh per day
Since implementing this policy, worker strength has significantly increased on Metro 2B, 4, 4A, and 9 lines. For instance, a contractor on the Metro 4 corridor recently brought in 60 workers from Odisha, with 150 more expected from Uttar Pradesh next week.
MMRDA believes this boost will help projects stay on schedule. Officials are regularly monitoring worker deployment and project progress at all sites.