New Metro Lines 5 and 5A to Transform Commuting in Mumbai Metropolitan Region The Mumbai Metropolitan Region is set for a major transportation overhaul with the expansion of Metro Line 5 and its extension, Line 5A. Originally conceived as a limited Thane–Bhiwandi link, the project has evolved into a 34.2-km network connecting Thane to Ulhasnagar, with a total cost of ₹18,130.55 crore. Approved by the state’s infrastructure development committee chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the revised plan aims to provide faster, more reliable travel to areas like Bhiwandi, Kalyan, and Ulhasnagar, which have long relied on overcrowded suburban trains and road networks. The redesigned route stretches from Kapurbawdi in Thane through Bhiwandi to Kalyan and Ulhasnagar, incorporating significant engineering adjustments to overcome previous challenges. A key change involves the Bhiwandi–Kalyan stretch, which had faced delays due to land constraints and concerns over traffic disruption. Originally planned as an elevated corridor, a critical section between Dhamankar Naka and Temghar has been moved underground to avoid demolishing the Bhiwandi Bypass Flyover. This decision prevents severe congestion in one of the region’s busiest corridors while making the project more viable in a densely built urban area. Another innovation is the introduction of a double-decker structure between Ranjanoli Junction and Durgadi, where a flyover and metro line will share the same corridor. This optimizes space in a constrained area, enhancing efficiency. At Kalyan, the proposed APMC station has been removed and integrated into another upcoming corridor, improving overall network efficiency. The project’s scope has expanded significantly since its initial approval in 2017. What began as a 24.#devendra_fadnavis #mumbai_metropolitan_region #metro_line_5 #metro_line_5a #kalyan
