Mumbai Monorail is finally getting a big break and is likely to resume services by the end of this month after a shutdown of eight months. Major upgrade and integration works at both the Chembur and Mahalaxmi ends are nearing completion.
According to officials, the final safety inspection of the entire 19.54 km long monorail route will be done by the end of this month. A retired government-appointed ‘Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety’ officer will inspect the entire corridor and give the necessary approval for passenger services.
Service closed from September 20, 2025
Monorail services were closed from September 20, 2025 due to frequent technical glitches, operational issues and safety incidents. After concerns arose about the safety of passengers, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) undertook a large-scale repair and modernization work.
MMRDA has purchased 10 new ‘Made in India’ monorail rakes and the old rakes have also been refurbished. Also, a modern CBTC (Communications-Based Train Control) signalling system has been installed to provide safer and more reliable services.
Direct connection to Metro
Work is underway to connect the monorail to Mumbai Metro Line 2B (Yellow Line) at Chembur. Currently, Metro 2B is running from Diamond Garden to Mankhurdchi Mandal. Travel between the monorail and the metro will become easier after the work underway at Chembur station near MTNL Junction is completed.
On the other hand, a skywalk and a footpath are being constructed in the Mahalaxmi-Arthur Road area to directly connect the monorail station to Metro Line 3 ‘Aqua Line’ and Mahalaxmi Railway Station.
A separate footpath is also being constructed at Jacob Circle, which will provide easy access to passengers and help reduce traffic congestion on the road.
The challenge of regaining the trust of passengers
The Mumbai Monorail has been criticized since its inception for low ridership, maintenance issues and frequent service disruptions. But now, the administration is hoping that the monorail will get a new lease of life with improved technology, new rakes and stronger connectivity with the metro.
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