Mumbai Metro Line 5 upgrade: Maharashtra clears Rs 18,131 crore plan linking Thane, Bhiwandi, Kalyan

The Maharashtra government has granted revised approval for Metro Line 5 along with its extension and the newly proposed Line 5A, raising the total estimated project cost to Rs 18,131 crore and marking a significant push for urban transport in the region.

The integrated metro corridor is designed to enhance connectivity across key areas including Thane, Bhiwandi, Kalyan and Ulhasnagar, benefiting daily commuters and improving access to emerging residential hubs.

Initially sanctioned in 2017 as a 25 km elevated corridor, Metro Line 5 has undergone multiple design changes over the years due to land acquisition issues and rehabilitation challenges, particularly in Bhiwandi and Kalyan.

A major revision approved in June 2023 involved converting the Durgadi–Kalyan stretch into an underground section, a move aimed at reducing disruption in dense areas but contributing to an increase in overall project cost.

Phase 1, from Kapur Bawdi to Dhamankar Naka, is nearing completion with minimal resettlement issues, while Phase 2 up to Durgadi will feature a hybrid alignment, including an underground stretch between Dhamankar Naka and Temghar.

The earlier plan to extend the line to Kalyan APMC has been replaced with a revised corridor—Metro Line 5 extension and Line 5A—linking Durgadi to Ulhasnagar via Aadharwadi, Khadakpada and Bhoirwadi, improving last-mile connectivity.

The project will include a double-decker structure between Ranjnoli Junction and Durgadi, integrating a flyover with the metro line to optimise space usage and ease traffic congestion in busy stretches. (All images by-Santosh Gupta)