All metro stations on the Ghatkopar–Andheri–Versova Metro 1 route are experiencing heavy rush during morning and evening peak hours. With over five lakh daily commuters, the current four-coach trains are proving insufficient to handle the growing passenger load.
In response to this long-standing demand, Mumbai Metro One Private Limited (MMOPL) has decided to increase the number of coaches from four to six. A proposal for this upgrade has been submitted to the National Asset Reconstruction Company Limited (NARCL) via the India Debt Resolution Company Limited (IDRCL). If approved, the move is expected to significantly ease congestion across the Metro 1 line.
Launched in 2014 as Mumbai’s first metro line, Metro 1 initially saw limited patronage. As a result, the four-coach setup was sufficient in its early years. However, over time, the number of commuters has steadily increased, leading to severe overcrowding—especially at major stations like Ghatkopar and Andheri. The launch of Mumbai Metro 3 which has connectivity to Marol metro station of Metro 1 is also adding pressure to the existing route.
The current four-car trains can accommodate around 1,750 passengers, whereas six-car trains would raise the capacity to 2,250. This would provide much-needed relief to daily commuters.
Despite being open to expansion, MMOPL had not taken concrete steps until recently due to financial constraints. The Metro 1 project has an outstanding debt of over INR 1,700 crore owed to six banks. As MMOPL expressed its inability to repay the loans, the banks approached the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), and the loans were eventually transferred to NARCL.
Now, MMOPL has formally requested approval from NARCL to procure the additional coaches. The project’s future depends on whether this proposal gets the green light from the involved financial institutions.
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