Mumbai: In a significant development the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has begun train trials on Phase-I of Metro Line 2B (DN Nagar to Mandale). The Phase -I is 5.39-km stretch includes five stations—Mandale, Mankhurd, BSL, Shivaji Chowk, and Diamond Garden.
The launch of trial runs signals the starting commercial operations. However, MMRDA must secure ten essential certifications and approvals before opening the line to the public. These include: Electrical Inspector (EIG) clearance for overhead electric lines, RDSO approvals for rolling stock, track, and signaling, Certificates for oscillation, braking, and speed, Lift approvals from the State Public Works Department (PWD), PTCC and Department of Telecommunications (DOT) clearances, BMC fire NOC (with integrated testing), Independent Safety Assessment (ISA) certification, Police NOCs, CMRS inspection and sanction and finally the Official declaration of the Commercial Operation Date.
MMRDA Officials have stated that these clearances will take a few months to process, setting the expected commercial launch around December this year.
In the meantime, the ongoing trial runs will help ensure all technical, operational, and safety systems are fully aligned with national and international standards.
Civil work for Phase-I is 98% complete, and the Mandale Depot is nearly ready. Spanning 31 hectares, it is India’s largest Metro depot, capable of housing 72 metro rakes, and features advanced facilities for inspection, testing, and maintenance.
