Mumbai: In a major boost to public transport in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), the state govt has granted revised approval for Metro Line 5, its extension and the newly proposed Line 5A, taking the total project cost to Rs 18,131 crore. The integrated corridor, to be executed by the MMRDA, is set to improve connectivity across Thane, Bhiwandi, Kalyan and Ulhasnagar.Originally sanctioned in 2017 as a 25km elevated corridor, Line 5 has undergone multiple design revisions due to land acquisition and rehabilitation challenges, particularly in Bhiwandi and Kalyan. A key change approved in June 2023 involved converting a portion between Durgadi and Kalyan into an underground stretch, pushing up costs. Officials said Phase 1 (from Kapur Bawdi to Dhamankar Naka) is nearing completion, with minimal resettlement hurdles. Phase 2, extending up to Durgadi, will feature a hybrid alignment, including an underground section between Dhamankar Naka and Temghar to reduce disruption in densely populated areas. A major engineering feature will be a double-decker structure integrating a flyover and metro line between Ranjnoli Junction and Durgadi.The earlier plan to extend the line to Kalyan APMC has been scrapped and replaced with a new corridor—Metro Line 5 extension and 5A—linking Durgadi to Ulhasnagar via Aadharwadi, Khadakpada and Bhoirwadi. This addition is expected to improve access to emerging residential hubs.The revised plan was finalised after a high-level CM-chaired review in June 2025. Authorities opted for partial underground construction in critical stretches to avoid large-scale demolition and traffic congestion. Bhiwandi MLA Rais Sheikh said the project would offer a crucial alternative for commuters reliant on road transport and indirect rail routes: “Residents will finally have a faster and more reliable transit option.” Bhiwandi MP Suresh Mhatre welcomed the inclusion of the double-decker flyover, stating that his long-standing demand had been accepted after discussions with deputy CM Eknath Shinde. “The design would ease congestion while optimising costs,” he said.
