Mumbai Metro 3 Set for Trials Next Week; Seepz-BKC Route to Launch Next Month

Mumbai's much-awaited Metro 3, or the Aqua line, is almost ready to serve the public. As per the latest update, Metro officials are now planning to start loaded integrated trials on trains along the Phase 1, which comprises Aarey-Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) route, next week.

Previously, empty coach dry runs were conducted to assess the metro’s top speed of 95 kmph. But, the upcoming loaded trials will simulate passenger weight by filling each coach with gunny bags of stones. Loaded tests are important before the trains are put into operation.

During these trials, several factors will be closely monitored. This includes coach vibrations on both straight and curved tracks. The term “loaded trials” refers to a technique in which eight coaches will be loaded with gunny sacks filled with stones, depending on the train’s tonnage capacity.

Safety will be a top priority for the authorities. The Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) and the Research, Design, and Safety Organisation (RDSO) will scrutinise further Metro 3 line parameters after these tests. The eight-car metro train features a 75% motor. This sets a new standard for operational efficiency and movement in India, as opposed to other lines with 50% motors.

With 96% of the project completed, the remaining tasks mainly involve minor repairs, last-minute touch-ups, and station beautification. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) has 19 rakes in its fleet, more than enough for Phase 1’s underground metro corridor. Once operational, 260 services are expected to transport about 17 lakh passengers daily.

The second phase of the project is also progressing, with certification for automatic train operation (ATO) functioning from BKC to Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli. Metro 3 is prepared for automatic operation without the need of any person if necessary. The first phase of the massive project, costing a total of INR 37,000 crore, is scheduled to start by the end of May between Aarey and BKC. The second phase, connecting BKC with Cuffe Parade, will open by the end of October this year.