The dream of Mumbai residents for a convenient Metro link to the international airport is edging closer to reality, thanks to the deployment of a second tunnel boring machine (TBM) on Metro Line 7A, also known as the Red Line.
TBM T-60 commenced its operations on 4 November. Metro Line 7A, which extends from Andheri to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), is an extension of Line 7, connecting Andheri to Bhayander.
Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) announced on X, “The second Tunnel Boring Machine, T-60, has begun its work on Metro Line 7A, linking Bhayander to the international airport.
The entire tunnelling project is expected to be completed by 2024.
Metro 7A Extension
The line-7A, planned as an extension will further augment connectivity and utilisation of the already operational Metro Line-7.
On 19 January 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Mumbai Metro Rail Line-7, along with Metro Line-2A.
Once operational, the new line will create a seamless connection to CSMIA, offering direct access not only to the airport but also to Mira Bhayandar Metro-9 and the Western suburbs Metro-2A and 7.
Once operational, this route promises to cut down commute times to the international airport by 30 to 60 minutes.
With a total length of 3.422 km, including a twin tunnel stretch of 2.49 km, the Metro Line 7A project is poised to have a transformative impact on Mumbai’s transportation landscape.
In addition to Metro Line 7A, there will be another metro station at the international airport on Metro Line 3, connecting Colaba, Bandra, and Seepz.
These two underground Metro stations at the international airport will provide seamless access at the concourse level. Currently, none of the existing metro lines offer such a direct connection to the international airport.
In conjunction with the planned Metro 8, the corridor will facilitate access to the Navi Mumbai International Airport, thereby further enhancing overall connectivity.