A trial run of the first phase of Metro Lines 4 and 4A was conducted in Thane, Maharashtra, on Monday (September 22). Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized that the project will significantly reduce travel time in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
CM Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, and State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik rode the 4-kilometer stretch between Gaimukh Junction and Vijay Garden. CM Fadnavis criticized the previous MVA government for delays and cost overruns in the metro project.
Speaking to the media, the Maharashtra CM said, “We are aiming to complete this metro line by the end of next year. Some work may continue into next year, but once completed, it will be the largest metro network in the country.” He also stated that a depot is being built on 45 acres of land in Mogarpada, which will provide services for metro lines 4, 4A, 10, and 11.
Metro line will benefit 2.2 million people – Fadnavis
He further said, “These services are expected to benefit at least 2.2 million people every day, saving 50 to 75 percent of their travel time. This project will involve an investment of approximately ₹16,000 crore.” The 35.20-kilometer-long Metro Lines 4 and 4A will connect Mumbai’s Wadala, Ghatkopar, and Mulund areas with Thane’s Kasarvadavali and Gaimukh. The CM also stated that once completed, the metro line will have eight major interchanges, connecting the network across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
CM attacks MVA over metro delays
CM Devendra Fadnavis blamed the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government for the delays and cost overruns in metro projects. He alleged, “The previous government stalled several important infrastructure projects, including the metro. This resulted in a delay of more than two and a half years and cost overruns.”
Deputy CM Shinde attacks previous governments
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, who is also the chairman of the MMRDA, criticized previous governments for neglecting Thane. He alleged, “Thane was treated step-motherly during the tenure of then Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan. Despite the growing population and the need for connectivity, Thane’s metro demands were ignored. We faced many obstacles, but thanks to the persistent efforts of the Mahayuti government, the project is now firmly back on track.”