Mumbai, April 3: Despite being technically ready for operations, Phase 1 of Metro Lines 2B and 9 remains unopened to the public, triggering frustration among commuters and activists across the Mumbai Metropolitan
Region.
Launch delayed due to political engagements
The inauguration, which was earlier expected on April 3, has been postponed due to the unavailability of senior political leaders engaged in election-related activities in poll-bound states such as Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal. No fresh date for the launch has been announced yet.
Metro Line 9 receives safety clearance
Metro Line 9 has already received final safety clearance from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) for its first phase. The approval covers the 4.97-km stretch between Dahisar (East) and Kashigaon in Mira Road, part of the larger 13.58-km corridor connecting Dahisar to Mira Bhayander. Trial runs have been successfully completed, and authorities are operationally ready.
Metro Line 2B awaits launch despite approval
Similarly, Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B — a 5.6-km stretch between Mandale in Mankhurd and Diamond Garden in Chembur — had received CMRS approval as early as November last year, but services are yet to commence.
Officials from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) said the launch date will be announced soon, adding that staff deployment for Metro Line 9 has already begun.
Commuters voice frustration
However, the delay has sparked resentment among daily commuters who were expecting relief from overcrowded suburban trains and traffic congestion.
Mitali Dahibhavkar, a resident of Mira Bhayander, said the Metro Line 9 service would significantly ease her daily commute. “My office is in Dahisar, and currently I have to rely on trains or autos. The metro will be much more convenient and comfortable, especially during the summer,” she said.
Echoing similar concerns, Anupam Gaurd, who frequently travels to distant suburbs including Virar, said the delay is unacceptable. “The metro project itself was delayed for years, and now even after completion, services are not starting. Public convenience should come first,” he said.
Jitendra Soni, a Chembur resident, expressed disappointment over the delay in opening Metro Line 2B. “People are still forced to travel in overcrowded local trains. Even though a section is ready, it is not being opened. Authorities should prioritise commuters instead of waiting for formal inaugurations,” he said.
Experts question delay in public projects
Transport experts and citizen groups have also questioned the practice of delaying operationally ready public infrastructure projects for ceremonial launches, urging authorities to begin services immediately in the larger public interest.
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Once operational, both corridors are expected to significantly improve east-west connectivity, reduce travel time, and decongest existing suburban rail and road networks across key stretches of Mumbai and its extended suburbs.
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