Trial Runs Begin on Mumbai Metro Line 9, Boosting Mira-Bhayandar Connectivity.

Trial runs have commenced on Phase I of the Mumbai Metro Line 9, a crucial elevated corridor linking Dahisar East to Kashigaon in Mira-Bhayandar. This development marks a significant step towards enhancing connectivity between Mumbai and the rapidly growing Mira-Bhayandar region.

The start of trial runs was made possible after the corridor was successfully energized for traction power. Metro Line 9, an 11.4-kilometer extension of the operational Metro Line 7, is set to become the primary Metro link connecting Mumbai city with Mira-Bhayandar.

Once fully operational, the new line is expected to substantially ease vehicular congestion on the Western Express Highway (WEH) and alleviate overcrowding on Western Railway's suburban train services, particularly benefiting the large number of daily commuters from the Mira-Bhayandar belt.

A senior official from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the executing body for the project, stated, "We are one step closer to operationalising a critical link in Mumbai's expanding Metro network."

Metro Line 9 is designed as a key north-western suburban corridor, connecting Dahisar (East) to Mira Bhayander and serving densely populated areas like Kashigaon and Mira Road. It will function as a feeder line to the operational Line 7 (Dahisar East to Gundavali), providing seamless travel options. Furthermore, it will offer connectivity towards the domestic airport via the upcoming Line 7A and onward to South Mumbai via Line 3A.

Improved network connectivity will also be facilitated by upcoming interchanges at Dahisar East (connecting with Line 7) and at Gundavali (connecting with Line 1 and Line 2A), promoting a more integrated public transport experience and reducing dependence on road travel. MMRDA estimates that the line will cut current travel times by 50-75%, depending on prevailing road conditions.

Urban transport experts anticipate that commissioning Line 9 will help decongest major arterial roads like the WEH and lessen the passenger load on local trains, especially during peak hours. "The daily struggle for space in Virar-bound locals could ease marginally once commuters from Mira-Bhayandar have a reliable Metro option," remarked a senior planner from MMRDA.

Commercial operations on the line are anticipated to begin before the end of the year, following the necessary safety clearances from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS).