The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRCL) expects to commence Phase-I of commercial operations on Aarey to Bandra-Kurla Complex route by July. The Aqua Line (Line-3) is a 33.5 km under-construction metro line with 27 stations, connecting Cuffe Parade, Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), and Aarey Colony.
Integrated trial runs for Phase 1 operations have already begun, and minor finishing works, testing, and trials of the system are in progress. A backup Operations and Control Centre at Bandra-Kurla Complex will handle the initial operations.
The Research, Design & Standards Organisation (RDSO), which is responsible for assessment testing and operational approval, will arrive in the first week of June to evaluate the Metro 3 system, and assess the entire system, including safety and performance tests such as braking systems and emergency response mechanisms.
After the successful completion of integration trials and obtaining safety certifications, MMRCL will seek approval from the Independent Safety Assessor for safe train operations. Overall, commercial operations will commence after all necessary approvals are in place.