27 April,2026 07:27 PM IST | Mumbai | Ronak Mastakar
Pic/MMRDA
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has successfully completed the installation of a key steel composite span for Mumbai Metro Line 2B across the Central Railway Harbour Line corridor between Kurla and Tilak Nagar stations, marking a major milestone in the project's progress.
According to MMRDA, the work forms part of Phase III (Saraswat Nagar to Chembur), a crucial stretch aimed at enhancing connectivity across Mumbai. The authority stated that the completion of this span will help link major north-south and east-west transit routes, improving overall urban mobility.
The operation was executed within a designated railway block period, ensuring that suburban rail services continued without disruption.
The structure, erected between Pier P663 and P664 near Kurla East, crosses the busy CSMT-Panvel Harbour Line. MMRDA said the steel span measures 41.5 metres in length, 11 metres in width, and weighs approximately 178 metric tonnes.
The span comprises two composite steel girders forming a robust structural system. These components were fabricated in Hyderabad, transported to Mumbai, and assembled near the site before being launched.
MMRDA highlighted that the launching process required meticulous planning and coordination. The operation involved tandem lifting using two 500-tonne capacity cranes, supported by an additional standby crane to ensure safety.
The girders were lifted and positioned with precision in a constrained railway environment, with the entire process completed within the approved time window.
The authority attributed the success of the operation to close coordination with multiple railway departments, including track, electrical, overhead equipment, and safety teams. It emphasised strict adherence to all statutory approvals and railway safety protocols.
Sanjay Mukherjee, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA, stated that executing work over an active railway corridor requires detailed planning and a high degree of precision. He noted that completing such complex tasks within limited time blocks is critical to ensuring the timely progress of Metro Line 2B.
Metro Line 2B is being developed in multiple phases, including:
Phase II: DN Nagar to Saraswat Nagar
- A 7.53-kilometre stretch with six stations.
Phase III: Bandra to Chembur
- A 10.03-kilometre corridor featuring eight stations, including key locations such as Bandra, Kurla East, and Chembur.
The corridor will also feature notable engineering structures, including cable-stayed and balanced cantilever bridges.
MMRDA said Metro Line 2B will integrate with several major transit systems, including existing metro lines, suburban rail networks, the monorail, and future high-speed rail infrastructure. The corridor will serve as a southern extension of Metro Line 2A, strengthening connectivity across the metropolitan region.
The authority noted that the project is expected to reduce travel time, decongest road networks, and promote seamless multi-modal transport. It will also contribute to environmental sustainability by lowering vehicular emissions and improving overall commuter experience.
MMRDA added that the successful execution of this complex operation reflects its capability to deliver large-scale infrastructure projects in challenging urban environments while maintaining high safety standards.
