Mumbai’s transportation landscape has been significantly transformed with the introduction of Mumbai Metro Line 3, also known as the Aqua Line.
This fully underground metro corridor is designed to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce pollution, and provide a fast and reliable mode of transport for daily commuters.
Overview of Mumbai Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line)
Mumbai Metro Line 3 is a 33.5 km underground rapid transit corridor stretching from Cuffe Parade in South Mumbai to Aarey JVLR in the northern suburbs.
The line comprises 27 stations, with 26 underground and 1 at-grade station. It is the city’s first fully underground metro line developed at a cost of INR 37,276 crore, aimed at enhancing urban mobility and reducing dependence on road transport.
Stations on Mumbai Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line):
- Cuffe Parade
- Vidhan Bhavan
- Churchgate Metro
- Hutatma Chowk
- CSMT (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus)
- Kalbadevi
- Girgaon
- Grant Road Metro
- Jagannath Shankar Sheth Metro
- Mahalaxmi Metro
- Science Center
- Acharya Atre Chowk
- Worli
- Siddhivinayak
- Dadar Metro
- Shitala Devi Mandir
- Dharavi
- Bandra-Kurla Complex
- Bandra Colony
- Santacruz Metro
- CSMI Airport T-1
- Sahar Road
- CSMI Airport T-2
- Marol Naka
- MIDC Andheri
- SEEPZ
- Aarey JVLR
Operational Details
- Inauguration Date: The final phase of the Aqua Line, connecting Worli to Cuffe Parade, was inaugurated on October 8, 2025, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- Service Timings: Trains operate daily from 5:55 AM to 10:30 PM, with an average frequency of approximately 7 minutes during peak hours. The timings are revised timings, and previously, the trains used to start a few hours later.
- Fare Structure: The fare system is distance-based, with prices ranging from INR 10 to INR 80, depending on the journey length.
| Distance Interval(slab) | Distance Range (Km) | Single Journey Ticket (INR) |
| 1 | 0-3 | 10 |
| 2 | 3-12 | 20 |
| 3 | 12-18 | 30 |
| 4 | 18-24 | 40 |
| 5 | 24-30 | 50 |
| 6 | 30- 36 | 60 |
| 7 | 36-42 | 70 |
| 8 | >42 | 80 |
Connectivity & Interchange Stations
Mumbai Metro Line 3 offers seamless integration with other metro lines and key transport hubs:
- Interchange Stations:
- Marol Naka: Direct interchange with Mumbai Metro Line 1 (Ghatkopar-Versova)
- CSMT (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus): Can interchange with Mumbai local trains through the CSMT Station (Harbour and Central Lines).
- Churchgate: Can interchange with Mumbai local trains through the Churchgate Station (Western Line).
- Key Hubs:
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (T2): Direct metro connectivity to the airport.
- BKC: Major business district with access to various commercial establishments.
- Worli: Prominent area connecting to the sea face and commercial zones.
- Marol Naka: Interchangeability with Metro Line 1
Smart Features & Passenger Amenities
Mumbai Metro Line 3 incorporates several passenger-centric features:
- Real-Time Updates: Digital displays at stations provide live train timings and updates.
- Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi services are available at major stations.
- CCTV Surveillance: All stations and trains are monitored for enhanced security.
- Retail Outlets: Selected stations house retail outlets for passenger convenience.
How To Book The Tickets
Passengers can book tickets for Mumbai Metro Line 3 through multiple convenient channels:
- Mobile App:
- Download the official Metro app (MetroConnect3 or Mumbai One).
- Select source and destination stations.
- Pay via UPI, debit/credit cards, or digital wallets.
- Generate a QR code ticket to scan at entry gates.
- Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs):
- Available at all metro stations.
- Select your destination and insert cash or card.
- Collect a physical token or smart card for station entry.
- WhatsApp e-tickets:
- Save the WhatsApp number – 8652635500 – to your contacts on your mobile phone.
- Send a “Hi” to the saved number to begin the process.
- You will receive a reply with options, including “buy ticket.” Select this option.
- Click the link provided to select your boarding and destination stations.
- Choose your preferred payment method (UPI, card, or wallet) and complete the secure payment process.
- After a successful payment, you will instantly receive a QR ticket to scan at the metro station.
Tip: Using digital tickets or smart cards reduces waiting time at stations and is encouraged for frequent commuters.
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Summing Up
Mumbai Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) marks a significant milestone in the city’s transportation infrastructure. With its fully underground design, extensive network of stations, and integration with other metro lines, it offers a fast, reliable, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional modes of transport.
The completion of the final phase in October 2025 has made the entire 33.5 km corridor operational, benefiting daily commuters and contributing to the city’s sustainable urban development goals.
