The Navi Mumbai Metro quietly embarked on its journey on Friday under the aegis of the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), dispelling the anticipation that had built up due to the delayed launch.
CIDCO secured the safety certificate from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) on June 21, 2023, signaling the green light for the commercial operation of Line 1 from Belapur to Pendhar. The protracted delay had sparked discontent among citizens, making the inauguration a highly awaited event.
The inaugural day of metro services brought joy to Navi Mumbaikars, attracting a large number of residents from Navi Mumbai, Thane, and Mumbai eager to take the maiden ride from Belapur to Pendhar.
Jigar Desai, a Ghatkopar resident and a metro enthusiast, seized the moment by collecting five tokens, expressing his passion for metro memorabilia. Desai, highlighting the eagerness that had built up during the long wait for the Navi Mumbai Metro, said, "I will use one and keep four of them as a collection."
As the metro glided through the scenic hilly areas of Kharghar, commuters like Ravi Patil from Kendriya Vihar in Kharghar expressed their delight, describing the experience as "wonderful." Patil noted that the metro service would eliminate the need for using his scooter to commute to Belapur.
Initially running at 15-minute intervals, regular metro services are slated to commence from November 18, operating from 6 am to 10 pm in both directions. The project, which took 12 years to materialize, witnessed contractor blacklisting and eventual contract assignment to MahaMetro.
Anil Galgali, an RTI applicant, raised concerns about a preliminary increase of Rs 291 crores in the metro work's cost. Despite delays, Galgali noted that no penalties were imposed on the contractor, sparking discussions about accountability in executing such infrastructure projects.
The inauguration of the Navi Mumbai Metro marks a significant milestone, providing relief and convenience to residents and commuters who patiently awaited the efficient transportation system for over a decade.
Regular Service Schedule (Both Directions):
Timing: 6 am to 10 pm
Navi Mumbai Metro Line-1 Fare:
0-2km: Rs 10
2-4km: Rs 15
4-6km: Rs 20
6-8km: Rs 25
8-10km: Rs 30
Beyond 10km: Rs 40
Phase 1 Stops (Belapur to Pendhar):
Belapur, RBI Colony, Belapda, Utsav Chowk, Kendriya Vihar, Kharghar Village, Central Park, Pethapada, Amandoot, Pethali Taloja, and Pendhar Terminal
