Mumbai Metro Line 3 is 33.5 km long and connects Cuffe Parade to Aarey Colony via 27 stations. The third phase of the metro route opened on October 8, 2025. Read on to learn more.
Every year, people from various backgrounds relocate to Mumbai in pursuit of better prospects. The city of dreams boasts exceptional transportation connections, thanks to its excellent highways and Mumbai Metro. The Mumbai Metro Line 3 is the most recent addition to the city’s quickly expanding metro network. The Mumbai Metro Aqua Line is also known as the Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ Line.
Metro Line 3 is 33.5 km long and comprises 27 stops between Cuffe Parade and Aarey Colony. The metro line is set to be operational in three phases. The Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) to Aarey Mumbai route opened on October 7, 2024. The second phase of Mumbai Metro Line 3 opened on May 10, 2025, connecting BKC Metro Station to Worli (Acharya Atre Chowk). The third phase of the Mumbai Metro Line began operations on October 8, 2025.
The MMRC (Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited) will operate Mumbai Metro line 3, which will be entirely underground. The project was initiated as a 50/50 joint venture between the Government of India (GOI) and the Government of Maharashtra (GOM).
JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) is financing the majority of the project (57.2%) with an ODA loan of Rs. 13,235 crores with a 30-year repayment period, a 1.15% interest rate for project operations, and a 0.01% interest rate on consulting services.
Mumbai Metro Line 3 Inauguration
The entire Mumbai Metro Line 3, also known as the Aqua Line, is now fully operating. On October 8, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly inaugurated the last length of the queue. This is an important milestone for Mumbai’s transport network. This last section of the railroad is known as Phase 2B. The route connects Worli with Cuffe Parade. With its opening, the full 33.5-kilometer line is now open to the public.
Mumbai Metro Line 3 Key Facts
| Name of Mumbai Metro Line 3 | Aqua Line |
| Estimated Cost | Rs 37,000 cr. (approx) |
| Total Length | 33.5 km |
| Type | Underground and At-Grade |
| Number of Stations | 27 |
| Estimated Ridership | 17 Lakhs per day |
| Status | Became fully operational on 8 Oct 2025 |
Mumbai Metro Line 3 Route Map: The Underground Metro Mumbai Route
The Mumbai Metro Line 3 aims to make commuting easier for passengers. It is the city’s first all underground metro line, with 26 of 27 stations underground.
Mumbai Metro 3 Stations
The following is a list of stations on Mumbai Metro Line 3, which connects Aarey Colony to Cuffe Parade via both elevated and underground metro Mumbai lines.
| S. No | Mumbai Metro Line 3 Station | Station Layout | Opening Date |
| 1 | Aarey Colony | At-Grade | October 2024 |
| 2 | SEEPZ | Underground | October 2024 |
| 3 | MIDC | Underground | October 2024 |
| 4 | Marol Naka | Underground | October 2024 |
| 5 | CSMIA T2 | Underground | October 2024 |
| 6 | Sahar Road | Underground | October 2024 |
| 7 | CSMIA T1 | Underground | October 2024 |
| 8 | Santacruz | Underground | October 2024 |
| 9 | Vidyanagri | Underground | October 2024 |
| 10 | BKC (Bandra Kurla Complex) | Underground | October 2024 |
| 11 | Dharavi | Underground | May 2025 |
| 12 | Shitladevi Temple | Underground | May 2025 |
| 13 | Dadar | Underground | May 2025 |
| 14 | Siddhivinayak Temple | Underground | May 2025 |
| 15 | Worli | Underground | May 2025 |
| 16 | Acharya Atrey Chowk | Underground | May 2025 |
| 17 | Science Museum | Underground | October 2025 |
| 18 | Mahalaxmi | Underground | October 2025 |
| 19 | Mumbai Central | Underground | October 2025 |
| 20 | Grant Road | Underground | October 2025 |
| 21 | Girgaon | Underground | October 2025 |
| 22 | Kalbadevi | Underground | October 2025 |
| 23 | Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus | Underground | October 2025 |
| 24 | Hutatma Chowk | Underground | October 2025 |
| 25 | Churchgate | Underground | October 2025 |
| 26 | Vidhan Bhavan | Underground | October 2025 |
| 27 | Cuffe Parade | Underground | October 2025 |
Mumbai Metro Line 3 Current Status
It is also known as the Aqua Line Metro Mumbai and will be implemented in stages. This is the city’s first underground metro.
Operational Routes
- Aarey to BKC Metro Station
Started: October 7, 2024
Length: Around 13 km
Stations on this route: Aarey, SEEPZ, MIDC, Marol Naka, Airport T2, Sahar Road, Airport T1, Santacruz, Bandra Colony, BKC
- BKC to Worli (Acharya Atre Chowk)
Opened: May 10, 2025
Length: Around 10 km
Stations included: Dharavi, Shitladevi Temple, Dadar, Siddhivinayak Temple, Worli, Acharya Atre Chow
- Worli to Cuffe Parade
Opened: October 08, 2025
Route includes: Science Museum, Mahalaxmi, Grant Road, Girgaon, Kalbadevi, CSMT, Hutatma Chowk, Churchgate, Vidhan Bhavan, and ends at Cuffe Parade.
The last phase of the Mumbai Metro Line 3 has been postponed. It was formerly scheduled for September 30, 2025, but has been postponed. The current scheduled opening date is October 8, 2025.
According to sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Mumbai Metro Line 3 section that connects Worli and Cuffe Parade to the rest of the nation. The important facts concerning the project are as follows.
Final Phase: The line’s third and final phase is a 9.5-kilometer underground tunnel that connects Acharya Atre Chowk (Worli) to Cuffe Parade. It has eleven stations.
Total Route: The 33.5-kilometer subterranean tunnel connects Cuffe Parade in South Mumbai to Aarey in the north.
Every day, 1.6 million commuters travel along the metro route. It greatly shortens the travel time between northern and southern Mumbai. Furthermore, it relieves pressure on the city’s suburban rail network and congested highways. It also gives crucial access to the city’s domestic and international airports.
Interchange stations of the Mumbai Metro Aqua Line
The Aqua Line Metro Mumbai itinerary map shows several interchange stations that connect commuters to other metro lines or trains. This includes:
The SEEPZ (Santacruz Electronic Export Processing Zone) station links to Line 6 of the Mumbai Metro.
The Churchgate Metro Station connects commuters to the Western Line (Mumbai Suburban Railway).
Marol Naka Metro Station connects to the Mumbai Metro Blue Line 1.
Mumbai Central metro stations connect with the National Rail Network and the Western line (Mumbai Suburban Railway).
The CSMIA T2 (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Terminal 2) Metro station links to the Mumbai Metro Red Line 7.
The Mahalaxmi metro station is also accessible via the Western Line (Mumbai Suburban Railway) and the Mumbai Monorail.
The CSMT metro station connects three separate lines. It covers both the National Rail Network and the Central and Harbour Lines of the Mumbai Suburban Railway.
The Marol Naka metro station connects to Mumbai Metro Line 1.
The BKC (Bandra Kurla Complex) metro station links to Mumbai Metro Line 2.
Aqua Line Metro Mumbai Fare
Mumbai Metro 3 fares range from Rs.10 to Rs.50 per route. Please find detailed fare information below.
| Distance in Km | Single Journey Ticket |
| 0 to 3 Km | Rs.10 |
| 3 to 12 Km | Rs.20 |
| 12 to 18 Km | Rs.30 |
| 18 to 24 Km | Rs.40 |
| 24 Km & More | Rs.50 |
Metro Line 3 Mumbai offers a 25% fare discount for differently abled passengers.
MMRCL has now instituted a 25% fee reduction for disabled customers. The implementation date of this rule is November 23, 2025. The overarching goal is to make the metro more accessible and convenient for people who need extra support.
Here are the main points:
The discount applies only to passengers with disabilities.
It is available with MetroConnect-3 app trip passes.
Currently, this feature only works on the iOS version.
The Android version is still delayed, as it requires Google’s clearance.
Once the update is complete, a 25% discount on monthly passes will begin.
MMRCL said this is part of their effort to make travel more inclusive.
NCMC Tap-and-Travel Card: Mumbai Metro Line 3
The Rupay National Common Mobility Card has been introduced for the Mumbai Metro Line 3. MMRC (Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited) released the card on June 9, 2025, in conjunction with State Bank of India and the National Payments Corporation of India.
Commuters can use the NCMC metro card’s tap-and-go capability. The metro card is good at all Mumbai Metro Line 3 stations, including Aarey JVLR and Acharya Atre Chowk. The NCMC metro card allows commuters on Line 3 of the Mumbai Metro to pay a cashless fare.
NCMC Metro Cards are only valid for use on Metro Line 3. These cards can be purchased at any recognised State Bank of India branch or at any Mumbai Metro Line 3 ticket counter. NCMC Metro Cards are given away for free, with a mandatory first top-up of Rs.100.
WhatsApp Ticketing: Mumbai Metro Line 3
Mumbai’s crucial Metro Line 3 (the Aqua Line) has adopted an extremely simple ticketing system. All you need to do is use WhatsApp. This capability is available to riders on the line that connects Cuffe Parade and Aarey JVLR. Riders can now rapidly obtain QR-based tickets without needing to download an additional mobile app. The fundamental purpose is to make travel more convenient, faster, and efficient for everyone. Commuters can swiftly avoid long lines at traditional ticket offices, saving valuable time. This service also benefits the environment by eliminating the use of printed paper tickets, so promoting sustainable and green mobility across the city. The service allows users to buy up to six tickets in one transaction. It also accepts a variety of payment methods, including UPI payments that have no additional fees.
Here are the simple procedures to purchase your metro ticket using WhatsApp:
| Step | How to Begin | What To Do Next |
| 1 | Send a message on the official number- +91 9873016836. A simple ‘Hi’ would get you in the chat box. | Or scan the QR code available at the metro station. |
| 2 | Select your starting and ending stations. | Choose the number of tickets you wish to obtain. You can only choose up to 6 at once. |
| 3 | Make the payment. | Select your payment option such as UPI. |
| 4 | Receive your QR ticket instantly on WhatsApp | Scan this QR ticket at the metro entry gate. |
Mumbai Metro Line 3 Timings
Find the metro train times for the Mumbai Metro 3 or the Aqua Line Metro Mumbai.
|
Days |
Timings |
| Monday to Saturday | 06:30 AM to 10:30 PM |
| Sunday | 08:30 AM to 10:30 PM |
Infrastructure of Mumbai Metro Line 3
In September 2018, the MMRC awarded Alstom Transport (a French transportation business) and its Indian affiliate a EUR 315 million contract to provide 336 coaches for Mumbai’s Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ Line. According to the agreement, the agency is responsible for the train sets’ construction, design, supply, installation, and testing. Each coach can accommodate around 300 passengers, giving the trains a total seating capacity of 3,000 passengers.
Interestingly, Mumbai Metro Line 3 has a Grade 4 automation level, implying that it is driverless. However, during its first year of operation, MMRC employed drivers. Mumbai Metro Line 3 uses the Alstom Urbalis 400 CBTC (Communications-Based Train Control) signalling system.
Mumbai Metro Line 3 Expansion
Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation intends to expand the Mumbai Metro Line 3 route to Navy Nagar in Colaba, Mumbai. The span will be five km long. The expansion was announced in November of 2023. The project is still awaiting approval from both the state and federal governments. The Detailed Project Report for the Metro Stretch has been submitted to the proper authorities.
The officials further stated that the initiative to design the development of new metro line was taken to boost metro connectivity to the Navy Office in Mumbai.
Pedestrian Infrastructure to Improve Mumbai Metro Line 3 Connectivity.
Several authorised officials from MMRDA, MMRCL, Indian Railways, and BMC have agreed to develop an integrated pedestrian infrastructure. The endeavour was undertaken to make it easy for Mumbai Metro Line 3 riders to walk from metro stations to their destinations. The authorities are looking into how the areas surrounding Mumbai Metro Line 3 stations might be interconnected to provide commuters with seamless connectivity. This infrastructure will consist of pedestrian subways, footbridges, and so forth.
MetroConnect3 Mobile App
Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited has launched MetroConnect3, a specially designed metro mobile app for Mumbai Metro Line 3. Users can download the app from their preferred app store. They can use the mobile app to browse Mumbai Metro Line 3 routes, purchase online metro tickets, view station amenities, and locate must-see sites near their selected metro station.
The smartphone program supports a variety of languages, including English, Hindi, and Marathi, making it available to all commuters.
Features of Aqua Line Metro Mumbai
Find a few major features of the Aqua Line Metro Mumbai.
Managed by DMRC and MMRC: DMRC has been awarded a 10-year contract for Mumbai Metro’s Line 3, which runs from Colaba to SEEPZ.
DMRC manages the subsurface line’s day-to-day operations. Its tasks encompass train operations and maintenance, system infrastructure, and passenger safety.
MMRC is responsible for queue creation, revenue management, non-fare box revenue generation, and regulatory compliance.
Emergency Doors At Both Ends: The Mumbai Metro Line 3 has emergency doors at both ends. In the event of an emergency, passengers can safely leave using the emergency doors on both ends. These metro trains are suited for underground areas.
Driverless Operations: Mumbai’s first underground metro line was scheduled to receive safety approval before beginning driverless operations once Phase 1 (Bandra Kurla Complex to Aarey) opened. A six-month trial period is required to acquire CMRS approval for driverless operations. When permitted, MMRC will switch to autonomous operations.
Exceptional Capacity: The Mumbai Metro’s Line 3 trains can transport up to 3,000 passengers at once. It is designed for PHPDT (Peak Hour Peak Direction Traffic), which accommodates around 72,000 passengers.
CBTC signalling system: All trains are fully air-conditioned and outfitted with a CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control) signalling system that enables driverless operation.
Mumbai Metro Line 3 – Advanced Technology Details
Metro Line 3 uses cutting-edge global technology. It is a very safe and effective technique.
Train Control System: The line uses Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) technology. This revolutionary mechanism allows trains to connect with the control room continuously. It helps to maintain an exact and safe distance between trains. This boosts queue capacity.
Automation: The trains operate with a high level of automation. They can run without a driver (driverless technology). This automation helps the service to run on time while avoiding human error.
Rakes: The line uses specialised, lightweight train sets known as Alstom rakes. They offer specific features like regenerative braking. This allows trains to produce less heat and consume less energy.
Free Wi-Fi services at Mumbai Metro Line 3 stations
To enhance the commuter experience and enable digital transactions, the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation has provided free Wi-Fi at all Mumbai Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) stations.
This measure was specifically intended to address the issue of weak or non-existent mobile network connectivity within the underground tunnel. It made it easy for commuters to buy internet tickets.
|
Feature |
Detail |
|
Availability |
All 27 stations on the Mumbai Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) |
|
Location |
Concourse (ticketing) level of every station |
| Access Name/Network Name |
MetroConnect3 |
|
Type of Service |
Free, secure, and reliable |
Step-by-Step Guide to Connect to the Free Wi-Fi
The free Wi-Fi service is linked to the official Metro app, and you must follow the instructions to gain complete internet access.
Download and Login: Download the official ‘MetroConnect3’ mobile app. Before using the station, log in or sign into the application.
Connect to the Network: Navigate to your device’s Wi-Fi settings. Choose ‘MetroConnect3’ from the list of accessible Wi-Fi networks.
Activate Free Internet Access: Start the ‘MetroConnect3’ software again. Navigate to the ‘Profile’ section of the app. To enable your free internet access, select ‘Connect to Wi-Fi’.
After completing these steps, you will be connected to the free Wi-Fi network, which will allow you to quickly access digital tickets and navigate the concourse.
Mumbai Metro Line 3: Sneak Peek at Upcoming Stations
The MMRC has officially given the first glimpse at the Kalbadevi Metro Station and others, which will be available on September 29, 2025 via the X handle. Kalbadevi Metro Station is located in the heart of a historical commercial neighbourhood. The design team did an amazing job. They merged modern technology with Marathi culture and heritage. The design was designed using a specific approach known as the NATM process.
The stations of Mumbai Metro Line 3 are very modern. They are intended to handle large crowds. The signs are clearly printed in three different languages: English, Hindi, and Marathi. In addition, several escalators and lifts have been erected to facilitate access.
Kalbadevi Metro Station
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Metro Station
Churchgate Metro Station
How One Woman Made Mumbai Metro Line 3 a Reality
Ashwini Bhide, the Managing Director of the Mumbai Metro Corporation, is overseeing construction on Mumbai Metro Line 3. Her precise vision and steady touch made our project a reality. Despite difficult terrain, heavy storms, and repeated delays, she commanded her crew with calm strength and determination.
Her leadership helped to resolve major on-the-ground difficulties, such as properly building massive tunnels and managing activities without disrupting the metropolis above. Every stage necessitated rigorous planning and coordination, which Bhide ensured worked in tandem.
The Aqua Line now stands as a testimony to her efforts and the hard work of hundreds of others who believed in the idea. It highlights how patience, competence, and one woman’s commitment to development can change the way Mumbai moves every day.
Mumbai Metro Line 3 Digital Monthly Pass
Mumbai Metro Rail Authority has just offered a Digital Monthly Pass option for Mumbai Metro Line 3. With this pass, commuters may enjoy comfortable riding on the Mumbai Metro’s Aqua line while saving money. The pass makes it the first metro in India to offer this exclusively through a mobile app.
The pass is valid for 30 days from the purchase date or until all of the included trips are completed, whichever occurs first. The following are the major details of the newly launched Mumbai Metro Line 3 digital monthly passes:
Digital Passes & Discounts
Monthly passes are trip-based and offer a significant discount compared to purchasing single route tickets:
|
Pass Type |
Discount on Total Fare |
| 60-Trip Pass |
15% |
| 45-Trip Pass |
10% |
How Mumbai Metro’s Aqua Line Digital Pass Works
According to officials, the passes are only available through the MetroConnect3 mobile app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. The purchasing process is detailed below.
Download and register for the MetroConnect3 app.
Choose your origin (beginning station) and destination (ending station).
Select your desired pass (45 or 60-trip).
Make the payment using a digital means such as UPI or a card.
Once purchased and activated in the app, the pass can be accessed using a QR code on your phone. This enables seamless, contactless admission and exit at the station gates.
Impact of Mumbai Metro Line 3 on Real Estate
The Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ Line aims to transform Mumbai’s real estate scene. Since Aqua Line 3’s development began in 2017, various developers have expressed interest in projects along its corridors.
The inaugural phase of Mumbai Metro Line 3’s operation, which began in October 2024, is projected to benefit a range of micromarkets. This includes the CBD (Central Business District), SBD (Secondary Business District), and the northern, western, and eastern suburbs.
According to economists, once the Aqua Line is operational, the value of residential homes in Navi Mumbai and Thane would increase. It will greatly improve connectivity to the commercial hubs of SBD North and West.
Localities to Invest in Near Mumbai Metro 3
Line 3 of the Mumbai Metro covers the city’s north and south and connects to other metro lines. Let’s have a look at the property values in the locations served by this metro line.
| S.no | Particulars | Property price for sale | Rent |
| 1. | Santa Cruz East | INR 18,800- INR 30,500 per sq ft | INR 56- INR 90 per sq ft |
| 2. | Mahalaxmi | INR 31,800- INR 54,800 per sq ft | INR 82- INR 132 per sq ft |
| 3. | Worli | INR 35,400- INR 60,300 per sq ft | INR 105- INR 189 per sq ft |
| 4. | Cuffe Parde | INR 43,100- INR 67,700 per sq ft | INR 123- INR 194 per sq ft |
| 5. | Mumbai Central | Approx INR 5 crore | INR 20,000-25,000 |
MMRC Approval Required for Any Work Within 50 Meters of Mumbai Metro Line 3.
A major renovation has been announced for buildings and land on the Metro Line 3 line. MMRC requires consent for any property within 50 metres on both sides of the Aqua Line before undertaking redevelopment, reconstruction, demolition, excavation, or any other comparable activity. This legislation would protect the 33-kilometer segment of underground tunnels connecting Cuffe Parade and Aarey.
The public notice was released on November 30, 2025. All owners, societies, and developers in this zone must seek approval from the MMRC’s planning and real estate departments. This is due to the increasing number of redevelopment plans in the city’s older neighbourhoods. Heavy machinery and substantial excavation along the metro path could be risky, therefore the government wants to keep an eye on things.
Here are the main features of the new rules:
Any building or demolition within 50 meters of the Aqua Line requires MMRC approval.
Developers must take care to protect the surrounding environment and people.
Regular inspections of construction tools and machines are necessary.
The major goal is to avoid tunnel damage and accidents during the worksite.
Developers have also expressed a greater interest in the districts surrounding the Aqua Line. Many developers have contacted the MMRC about redevelopment limits and FSI opportunities under the TOD policy. This highlights how quickly local real estate concepts shift along the underground path.
Summing up: Mumbai Metro Line 3
Aqua Line Metro Mumbai (Line 3), like the other Mumbai Metro lines, is intended to improve city connectivity and shorten passenger journey times. It connects Mumbai’s southern and western suburbs with an underground corridor. Now that it is finished, it removes approximately 7 lakh vehicles from the road, reducing massive congestion and traffic in the metropolis.
