MMRDA gives Mumbai’s Metro pillars a colourful makeover to ease commuter navigation

The beautification project has so far covered 86 per cent of the total pillars. PIC/MMRDA

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) on Saturday marked a significant milestone in its ongoing urban beautification and public convenience initiative with the completion of thematic painting on 2,537 metro pillars across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The initiative aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the city while providing intuitive visual cues for metro line identification.

The beautification project, which has so far covered 86 per cent of the total pillars, has been spearheaded by Maharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis, his deputy and MMRDA Chairman Eknath Shinde, and Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Sanjay Mukherjee.

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Under the project, MMRDA has used distinct thematic designs and colour schemes for pillars of different Mumbai Metro lines. For instance, if a metro line is designated as the 'Red Line,' its pillars will be designed prominently in red for commuters to easily identify the metro routes.

Speaking about the project, CM Fadnavis said, "Mumbai is a city of dreams, and its infrastructure must reflect its aspirations. This metro pillar beautification Initiative is a testament to our commitment to not just building world-class public transport but also ensuring that our urban spaces are vibrant, aesthetically pleasing, and easy to navigate. It's about blending functionality with art, creating a more livable and enjoyable city for all."

Meanwhile, Deputy CM Shinde stated, "The metro system, as a vibrant artery reflecting the very soul of Mumbai, is more than just a mode of transport. This thematic pillar beautification drive, is a testament to our commitment to holistic urban development. It's about weaving the city's identity into its infrastructure, ensuring that every journey is not just efficient but also an immersive experience that celebrates our progress and our unique spirit. This project truly embodies MMRDA's focus on both grand infrastructure and the intricate details that enrich the daily lives of our citizens."

Here's a breakup of the work completed so far across various Mumbai Metro corridors:

Line-2B (DN Nagar - Mandale): 623 of 653 pillars completed (96 per cent)

Line-4 and 4A (Wadala - Kasarvadavali - Gaimukh): 841 of 1,023 pillars completed (82 per cent)

Line-5 (Thane - Bhiwandi - Kalyan): 430 of 488 pillars painted (88 per cent)

Line-6 (Swami Samarth Nagar - Vikhroli): 288 of 422 pillars done (68 per cent)

Line-9 (Dahisar East - Mira Bhayander): 328 of 354 pillars completed (93 per cent)

Line-7A (Andheri East - Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport): 100 per cent completion with all 22 pillars painted

"This initiative is a meticulous undertaking, requiring precision and coordination across various metro lines. The completion of 2,537 pillars is a significant achievement, demonstrating our team's dedication to delivering on promises. The colour-coded and thematically designed pillars will greatly aid commuters in identifying their routes, thereby streamlining their travel experience and contributing to a more organised urban landscape. We are committed to completing the remaining work efficiently once the monsoon subsides," Dr Mukherjee informed.

MMRDA has also appealed to citizens to safeguard these artworks by preventing defacement or misuse.