Metro 9, from Dahisar to Mira Rd, set for trial runs

Mumbai: Trial runs on Phase I of Metro Line 9-- the elevated stretch between Dahisar East and Kashigaon in Mira-Bhayandar -- are set to commence as the corridor has been energised for traction power. The trial runs mark a major milestone in the development of the 11.4-km line, an extension of the operational Metro Line 7.Thus, Line 9 is the Metro that connects Mumbai with Mira-Bhayandar.Once fully functional, the corridor is expected to alleviate vehicular congestion on Western Express Highway (WEH) and reduce overcrowding on Western Railway's suburban trains, particularly for daily commuters from the fast-growing Mira-Bhayander belt."We are one step closer to operationalising a critical link in Mumbai's expanding Metro network," said a senior official from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).Metro Line 9 is a crucial north-western suburban corridor that links Dahisar (East) to Mira Bhayander, passing through densely populated nodes like Kashigaon and Mira Road. Once operational, it will serve as a feeder corridor to Line 7, which is already in service between Dahisar East and Gundavali (Andheri East). It will also offer seamless connectivity to commuters heading towards the domestic airport via the upcoming Line 7A and further onwards to South Mumbai via Line 3A.Additionally, the upcoming interchanges at Dahisar East (with Line 7) and at Gundavali (with Line 1 and Line 2A) will create a networked transport experience, reducing reliance on road-based transport and offering faster commute choices.According to MMRDA, the line shall reduce current travel times by 50-75% depending on road conditions.Urban transport experts believe the commissioning of Line 9 will decongest major arterial roads such as WEH and reduce the load on local trains, particularly during peak hours."The daily struggle for space in Virar-bound locals could ease marginally once commuters from Mira-Bhayandar have a reliable Metro option," said a senior planner from MMRDA. Commercial operations are likely to begin before the end of the year after obtaining clearances from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS).