Thane, one of the fastest-growing cities in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), has officially entered Mumbai’s metro map with the commencement of trial runs on Mumbai Metro Line 9. This milestone marks the beginning of a new era in regional connectivity, urban mobility, and sustainable infrastructure for Thane residents.
Mumbai Metro Line 9: Connecting Dahisar (East) to Kashigaon
Mumbai Metro Line 9, part of the city’s expanding metro ecosystem, is a crucial corridor that connects Dahisar (East) to Kashigaon in its Phase 1 development. The newly inaugurated 4.4-kilometre stretch includes four key stations:
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Dahisar (East)
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Pandurangwadi
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Miragaon
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Kashigaon
This phase not only represents the first-ever metro corridor in the Thane district but also introduces India’s first double-decker viaduct in the region — a modern marvel that combines a metro line on the upper deck and a vehicular flyover below.
What It Means for Thane Residents
For the people of Thane and the surrounding suburbs like Mira-Bhayandar, this metro line is a game-changer. Once fully operational, Metro Line 9 will offer seamless connectivity to major destinations, including:
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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport via Lines 7 & 7A
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Andheri (West) via Line 2B
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Ghatkopar via Lines 7 & 1
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Link Road via Line 2A at Dahisar East
Most importantly, future plans include an extension to Thane via Line 10 at Miragaon, integrating Thane even further into Mumbai’s public transport network. A proposed Line 13 will also link the corridor to Vasai-Virar, creating a robust, unified metro system for the entire MMR.
Eco-Friendly and Future-Ready Infrastructure
Line 9 is not just about mobility — it’s a stride towards sustainability and smarter urban development. The metro line has been designed to:
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Ease traffic congestion at choke points like Dahisar Toll Naka
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Promote public transport usage over private vehicles
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Reduce carbon emissions through energy-efficient systems, including regenerative braking technology
This aligns with Mumbai’s broader goal of achieving zero net carbon emissions and building a liveable, eco-friendly city.
Innovative Engineering for Urban Efficiency
One of the most striking features of Line 9 is its double-decker viaduct, which maximizes land use in a space-constrained city like Mumbai. This innovative design allows both metro trains and vehicular traffic to move efficiently, reducing delays, construction disruption, and future expansion hurdles.
The success of this design sets a precedent for other densely populated cities, demonstrating how smart urban planning and engineering can go hand-in-hand.
A Step Towards Inclusive Urban Growth
By extending metro connectivity to Thane, the Mumbai Metro network is promoting inclusive development across the metropolitan region. Easier access to jobs, education, and essential services means more opportunities for residents, especially in rapidly growing suburban areas.
As Line 9 progresses from trial runs to full operation, it brings the vision of a more connected, equitable, and sustainable Mumbai closer to reality.
