Mumbai’s first underground metro, Line 3 (Phase 1: Aarey to BKC), funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), was inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi. The project marks a milestone in urban transportation, enhancing connectivity and reducing travel time while promoting sustainability through significant reductions in traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.
Prime Minister’s Address:
Before the launch, PM Modi expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for their support, highlighting the Metro as a symbol of India-Japan friendship. He emphasised how eagerly Mumbai residents awaited the launch of this vital transportation link.
Metro Line 3 Features & Benefits:
As Mumbai’s first fully underground metro, Line 3 is set to serve 1.5 million passengers daily, with frequent trains every 3-4 minutes. The line will reduce travel time from the airport to South Mumbai to around 45 minutes, improving urban connectivity and offering a sustainable transport solution.
Insights:
Mr. TAKEUCHI Takuro, Chief Representative of JICA India, said, “The Mumbai Metro Line 3 represents the future of urban transportation in India. This Significant progress has been achieved through the enduring cooperation between the Governments of India and Japan. The project not only enhances transportation within the economic hub of Mumbai but also contributes to building a more sustainable and resilient future. By addressing crucial matters like traffic congestion and urban mobility, we aspire to enhance the quality of life for millions of Mumbai’s residents, in alignment with JICA’s commitment to creating smarter and sustainable cities.”
Environmental Impact:
The metro line is expected to reduce GHG emissions significantly, with an estimated climate change mitigation of 261,968 tons of CO2 equivalent per year, due to reduced car traffic and enhanced public transportation use.
JICA’s Financial Support & SDG Alignment:
JICA has extended substantial financial support across five tranches, contributing to the metro’s development and aligning with sustainable development goals like economic growth, resilient infrastructure, and combating climate change.
Conclusion:
Mumbai Metro Line 3 stands as a symbol of international collaboration and sustainable development. By significantly reducing travel time and easing congestion, this JICA-supported project enhances urban connectivity, making strides toward greener mobility and advancing the city’s transportation infrastructure for millions of residents.
Source: JICA – Press Release | Images Credit: JICA
