The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has decided to extend Metro line-5 to Ulhasnagar via Khadakpada, reports MumbaiLive.
This metro network is currently proposed between Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan.
As per the decision, the total length of this extension corridor will span 7.7 km, which will be developed in two phases — between Kalyan and Khadakpada and the other phase to connect Khadakpada and Ulhasnagar.
The MMRDA has decided to prepare a comprehensive plan for the extended metro line.
For this, the appointment of a consultant will be considered and a proposal has been prepared.
The proposal will be placed for approval in the upcoming meeting of the MMRDA authority, to move forward with this proposed extension to Ulhasnagar.
The Metro line-5 project is 24.9 km long and with a projected cost Rs 8,416 crore.
The line will have interconnectivity with other lines of the Mumbai metro network.
This includes interconnection with the under-construction Metro line-4 between Wadala and Kasarvadavli, the proposed Metro line-12 between Kalyan and Taloja, and additionally with the existing central railway network.
This development aims to provide metro connectivity to Thane regions, with improving accessibility to the commercial, government bodies and geographical landmarks in Thane, Bhiwandi and Kalyan.
Presently, the commuters have to rely on the overburdened local railways and BEST buses. It is expected that this connectivity will reduce the travel time by 50 per cent to 75 per cent.
As per reports, the decision for the extension has been taken as per the demand of people’s representatives in Ulhasnagar and on the orders of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Ulhasnagar is an emerging industrial city, with demand for goods such as clothes and furniture.