Expect significant improvements in connectivity to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) thanks to upcoming Metro projects, including Line 7A (Gundavali Metro station to CSMI airport) and the underground Metro Line 3 (Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ).
Recently, tunneling work commenced on the 3.4-kilometer Mumbai Metro Line 7A, an extension of the red line or Metro 7, which links Dahisar East to Gundavali, subsequently connecting Andheri East to the airport.
Once completed, Metro Line 7A, an extension of the operational Metro Line 7 (Andheri East to Dahisar East) and the under-construction Metro Line 9, will establish a direct link from Mira Bhayander to the airport. This will significantly reduce travel time to the airport from over two hours by road to just one hour.
Additionally, the underground Metro Line 3 (Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ) will provide convenient access for commuters from Colaba to reach the airport station, named CSMIA T2.
Both of these upcoming Metro lines will transport passengers directly to the airport terminal area, eliminating the need for autorickshaws or taxis, as opposed to the existing airport station on Metro Line One (Ghatkopar to Versova via Andheri).
Moreover, apart from direct connectivity, the forthcoming Metro Line 1, Line 6, 2A, and 2B will feature interchange stations, further enhancing travel options within the city and its suburbs.
According to an official from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), Metro Line 7A is projected to become operational by December 2025. Tunneling work for this line has already commenced, featuring a partial elevated alignment running parallel to the Western Express Highway and Sahar elevated road. MMRDA is responsible for implementing Metro Line 7A.
The Metro Line 3 CSMIA T2 station is 91 percent complete and is part of Phase 1 (Aarey to BKC) alignment of the underground Metro Line 3. Phase 1 of Metro Line 3 (Aarey to BKC) is expected to be ready by December of this year or early next year. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRC) is responsible for implementing the underground Metro Line 3.
Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee IAS, MMRDA commissioner, emphasized the vital role Metro Line 7A will play in connecting the international airport to the MMR region. He highlighted that this Metro line will serve as a reliable link, seamlessly connecting the western and eastern suburbs of Mumbai, along with South Mumbai, Mira Bhayander, and Thane, through a comprehensive network of Metro lines, including 7, 2A, 2B, 9, as well as underground Line 3, Line 4, and Metro 10. This enhanced connectivity will offer commuters traveling to the airport a hassle-free journey and convenient access to the T2 terminal.
A spokesperson from the MMRC noted that Metro Line 3 is expected to become the busiest single line in Mumbai, connecting multiple major hotspots from Colaba to SEEPZ, with airport stations serving as crucial stops on this corridor, connecting T1 & T2.
