The long-awaited Metro-4 corridor in Thane, aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity to Wadala and Ghatkopar, remains non-operational nearly nine months after a high-profile trial run attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Although trial operations were conducted in September 2025 and metro coaches were placed on the tracks, commercial services have yet to begin. The delay has drawn criticism from residents, especially in the Ghodbunder area, who continue to face traffic disruptions caused by the decade-long construction project.
Metro-4 is a 32.32-km elevated corridor with 30 stations. Work on the project began in 2016, with authorities initially targeting completion within six to seven years. However, the project remains unfinished nearly ten years later.
According to sources, operations cannot commence until the Railway Safety Commission issues the mandatory safety certification. The commission is required to inspect the corridor's infrastructure and technical systems before granting approval for passenger services. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has reportedly not yet received the final clearance.
The state government had earlier indicated that services on a section of the corridor, particularly in the Ghodbunder stretch, could begin first. However, with the safety certificate still pending, the launch timeline remains uncertain, leaving Thane's first metro service out of reach for now.
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