The Mumbai Monorail, which began operations in 2018, is India’s first monorail project, spanning a 20 km route from Chembur to Wadala and Sant Gadge Maharaj Chowk. However, after nearly eight years of service, it will discontinue operations temporarily starting September 20, 2025. In a significant effort to upgrade and modernize the Mumbai Monorail system, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has announced the temporary suspension of Monorail services starting September 20, 2025.
This interruption will enable the integration of new rolling stock, the implementation of advanced Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) signaling, and the refurbishment of the current fleet, all aimed at ensuring safer and more reliable travel for Mumbaikars.
Several key enhancements are already in progress. The newly deployed CBTC system, developed in Hyderabad, is being introduced to the Monorail for the first time. Currently, 5 electronic interlockings are installed across 32 locations, with testing taking place, while 260 Wi-Fi access points, 500 RFID tags, and 90 train detection systems have been successfully set up. Wayside signaling work is also complete, with integrated testing actively ongoing.
Mumbai Monorail To Get 260 Wi-Fi Access Points And More
The MMRDA has procured 10 new Make-in-India rakes in collaboration with M/s MEDHA, with 8 units already delivered and the 9th rake currently under inspection. The 10th rake is in its final assembly stage. With daily operations running from 6:15 AM to 11:30 PM, only a brief window remains at night for installation and testing. This limited timeframe has hindered progress, making a complete suspension essential to enable uninterrupted installation and commissioning of new systems while also addressing necessary maintenance on older trains.
On this, Sri Eknath Shinde, Honourable Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra & Chairman, MMRDA, stated: “The block of the Monorail is a vital step in strengthening Mumbai’s transport backbone. The introduction of new rakes, advanced CBTC signalling, and the refurbishment of the existing fleet will ensure safer and more reliable services for citizens. This short block is necessary to complete the work with speed and precision. With the cooperation of Mumbaikars, we will bring back the Monorail in a stronger form.”
Recent technical challenges have prompted the MMRDA to form a committee for an in-depth investigation to ensure long-term operational reliability. As a result, Monorail services between Chembur and Sant Gadge Maharaj Chowk will be halted until further notice.
The MMRDA views this suspension not as a setback but as a proactive step toward improving safety and efficiency. Officials assure citizens that the upgraded Monorail will provide a more reliable public transport option when it resumes operations.
