Maharashtra Sanctions Interest-Free Loans for Nine Mumbai Metro Lines
The Maharashtra Government has recently issued a significant financial boost to Mumbai’s metro expansion by releasing a fresh round of interest-free soft loans for nine ongoing corridors. These allocations, detailed in government resolutions, are designed to alleviate the financial pressures on the city’s mass transit projects by covering tax liabilities and land acquisition costs borne by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). This move underscores a renewed focus on strengthening public transport as the city transitions towards a low-carbon and equitable mobility future.
The largest share of support has been directed to Metro Line 2B, the east–west link between DN Nagar and Mandale. With the latest installment, total state assistance for this corridor now exceeds Rs 7.26 billion. Officials have highlighted that this line is crucial for connecting densely populated residential areas with emerging employment districts. This connectivity is expected to shift more commuters from road-based travel to cleaner mass transit options, thereby reducing traffic congestion and pollution.
Metro Line 5, which links Thane, Bhiwandi, and Kalyan, has secured over Rs 523 million for the current fiscal year. According to transport planners, this corridor is vital for improving access in traditionally underserved industrial belts. It is anticipated to help reduce the heavy freight-linked congestion that has long affected the region. With cumulative support now close to Rs 2.77 billion, the corridor is positioned as a key enabler of more inclusive regional mobility.
Metro Line 6, stretching from Swami Samarth Nagar to Vikhroli, and Metro Line 2A between Dahisur and DN Nagar have also received substantial allocations. Officials explained that Lines 2A and 2B together form a major north–south rapid transit spine. This is expected to ease pressure on the city’s overstretched suburban rail network while enabling smoother last-mile connectivity through feeder systems and walking-friendly improvements. Fresh funding has also been released for Metro Lines 4, 4A, 7, 9, 7A, 10, and 12, underscoring the government’s intent to maintain construction momentum across the wider network. These corridors collectively enhance mobility across both high-density urban areas and expanding suburban growth centers, supporting long-term shifts towards more climate-resilient and accessible transport choices.
The Finance Department has clarified that repayment obligations for these soft loans will commence only after external borrowings taken from multilateral agencies are settled, currently projected for 2044. Repayment will be executed in a single installment and will not attract penalties. MMRDA has been tasked with maintaining dedicated accounting systems for each expenditure head and furnishing utilization reports to ensure transparency in public spending. Urban mobility experts believe that this funding strategy reflects the state’s broader aim of creating a transport environment that encourages public transit usage over private vehicles. As Mumbai works towards reducing congestion, emissions, and travel inequality, sustained investment in metro infrastructure remains essential for shaping a more inclusive, efficient, and low-carbon urban future.
