The Maharashtra government, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has greenlit the Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project, a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The 29-kilometer metro network, estimated at ₹12,200.10 crore, is expected to be completed by 2029. The project will improve interconnectivity within Thane city and link major business hubs, providing an efficient transport option for thousands of commuters.
The Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MahaMetro) will lead the project, which marks its first greenfield metro venture in the MMR. Initially planned seven years ago by the Thane Municipal Corporation, the project has now gained momentum. MahaMetro has already begun the tendering process for the construction of the metro line, which will consist of 22 stations spread across Thane.
Key Routes and Stations
The Thane Integral Ring Metro will run along the western edge of Thane city, passing through key areas such as Wagle Estate, Manpada, Waghbil, and Thane Railway Station. The 22 proposed stations include:
- Raila Devi
- Wagle Circle
- Lokmanya Nagar Bus Depot
- Shivaji Nagar
- Neelkanth Terminal
- Gandhi Nagar
- Dr. Kashinath Ghanekar Natyagruha
- Manpada
- Dongripada
- Vijaynagari
- Waghbil
- Waterfront
- Patlipada
- Azad Nagar Bus Stop
- Manorma Nagar
- Kolshet Industrial Area
- Balkum Naka
- Balkumpada
- Rabodi
- Shivaji Chowk
- Thane Junction (underground)
- New Thane (underground)
Project Details and Timeline
The majority of the corridor will be elevated, with a 2-3 km underground section. Initial designs are being prepared for six key stations, including Waterfront, Waghbil, Vijay Nagari, Dongripada, Manpada, and Dr. Kashinath Ghanekar Natyagruha. After completing geo-technical studies, designs for the remaining 14 stations will be initiated.
By the time of completion in 2029, the daily ridership is expected to reach approximately 6.47 lakh passengers, increasing to 8.72 lakh by 2045.
Bidding and Construction Progress
Several consultants have submitted bids to design sections of the metro line, including RITES Limited, STUP Consultants, and international firms like Systra MVA Consulting. STUP Consultants have emerged as the lowest bidder for an 8-kilometer stretch. The bidding process is also underway for environmental and social impact assessments, as well as the overall construction of the metro system.
The project promises to drastically reduce travel time, ease congestion, and provide a sustainable, eco-friendly transportation solution for Thane residents.
