By Naren Kumar Mumbai’s metro network will expand further in 2026 with the opening of several new lines and extensions. These projects aim to improve daily travel across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). After the launch of Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) from Aarey to Cuffe Parade in 2025, authorities are focusing on extending metro services to underserved suburbs.
Multiple metro corridors are currently in advanced stages of construction. In 2026, parts of Metro Line 9, Line 2B, and Lines 4 and 4A are expected to begin passenger operations. These lines will strengthen east-west and north-south connectivity across Mumbai and nearby regions.
Metro Line 9 Phase 1 Brings Metro Access to Mira Bhayandar
Metro Line 9 Phase 1 will provide metro connectivity to Mira Bhayandar for the first time. This corridor extends Metro Line 7 beyond Dahisar East up to Kashigaon. The initial stretch covers around 4.5 kilometres.
Four stations are ready in the first phase. These stations extend up to the Subhash Chandra Bose Stadium in Bhayandar. Once operational, commuters will gain direct access to Metro Line 7 towards Andheri.
Passengers can also interchange with Metro Line 2A at DN Nagar. Further connections to Metro Lines 1 and 3 will be available. This integration will improve travel across western and central Mumbai.
The Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety began inspections in December. Officials expect the line to open in January 2026, subject to final approvals. Authorities plan to complete the remaining sections of Line 9 in later phases.
Metro Line 2B to Improve East-West Travel
Metro Line 2B will add a new east-west corridor to Mumbai’s transport network. Five stations on the initial stretch are nearing completion. This phase will connect Mandale to Diamond Garden in Chembur.
The section will link with Mankhurd railway station on the Harbour line. This connection will support commuters from the eastern suburbs. A future interchange with the monorail is also planned at Chembur.
Once fully completed, Line 2B will span 23.6 kilometres. The route will run from DN Nagar through Bandra, Kurla, Chembur, and up to Mankhurd. The second phase, connecting DN Nagar to Saraswat Nagar in Khar, is expected to open by mid-2026.
Metro Lines 4 and 4A to Connect Mumbai and Thane
Metro Lines 4 and 4A will create a direct metro link between Mumbai and Thane. Authorities plan to open the first section in early 2026. This 10.5-kilometre stretch will run from Cadbury Junction to Gaimukh.
Line 4A includes a 2.7-kilometre extension from Kasarvadavali to Gaimukh. This extension will improve access for northern Thane residents. Trial runs on this section have already taken place.
Construction delays have occurred due to complex station designs. Officials expect progress to continue in phases. Over the next few months, services will extend from Gaimukh to Gandhi Nagar in Vikhroli.
The full Line 4 corridor is expected to become operational by 2027. The final route will connect Thane directly to Wadala.
What This Means for Mumbai Commuters
The metro openings planned for 2026 mark a major step in Mumbai’s urban transport development. These projects will reduce travel time and ease pressure on suburban trains. They will also improve access to growing residential and commercial areas.
With each phase, Mumbai’s metro network moves closer to becoming a reliable citywide transit system. The continued expansion supports long-term mobility and sustainable urban growth across the MMR.