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State approves Metro 5A, expansion of Line 5
The Maharashtra government approved expanding Mumbai Metro 5 and introducing a new integrated Line 5A, forming a 34.2-km network across the Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan-Ulhasnagar belt at an estimated ₹18,130.55 crore. Metro 5 was originally approved in October 2017 as a 24.9-km elevated corridor with 17 stations costing ₹8,416.51 crore, with the first 11.9-km phase from Thane to Bhiwandi in the final stages of construction.
Why It Matters
This decision broadens Mumbai's metro network and signals ongoing efforts to improve regional public transport connectivity.
Timeline
3 Events
First phase of Metro 5 (Thane to Bhiwandi) in final stages of construction
April 23, 2026
The first phase of Metro 5, between Thane and Bhiwandi, spanning 11.9 km with six stations, is in the final stages of construction; this stretch progressed faster as it did not involve major rehabilitation and resettlement challenges.
Expansion to Metro 5A approved; integration forming 34.2-km network
April 22, 2026
The Maharashtra government issued a government resolution on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, approving expansion of Mumbai Metro 5 and a new integrated line, 5A, forming a 34.2-km network across the Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan-Ulhasnagar belt at an estimated cost of ₹18,130.55 crore.
Original Metro 5 approved in October 2017
October 2017
Metro 5 was originally approved as a 24.9-km fully elevated corridor with 17 stations connecting Thane, Bhiwandi and Kalyan, at a cost of ₹8,416.51 crore.