03 March,2026 11:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The last train departure from Churchgate Station (towards Aarey and Cuffe Parade) will be at 11.59 pm. Representational pic
With the excitement building for the high-profile ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final between India and England on Thursday, March 5, at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai Metro Line-3 (Aqua Line) has announced extended services to ensure smooth and convenient commuting for thousands of fans heading to the venue.
The match, starting at 7 pm, is a crucial knockout encounter expected to draw massive crowds to South Mumbai. Wankhede Stadium, located near Churchgate and Marine Drive, will see heavy footfall from cricket enthusiasts across the city, leading to potential congestion on roads and local trains. To support spectators and reduce travel hassles, Metro Line-3 will operate additional trains on both up and down lines throughout the day and into the late evening.
Metro Line-3, spanning 33.5 km with 27 stations from Cuffe Parade to Aarey Colony (JVLR), passes through key central and southern areas of Mumbai. Important stations close to Wankhede include Churchgate (underground, a short walk from the stadium), Vidhan Bhavan, Hutatma Chowk, CSMT, and others like Grant Road and Mumbai Central. This makes the metro an ideal, air-conditioned, and reliable option for fans coming from suburbs like Aarey, SEEPZ, Airport areas, Worli, BKC, and Dadar, avoiding overcrowded Western and Central Railway lines during peak event hours.
A key highlight for match-goers is the extended timing: The last train departure from Churchgate Station (towards Aarey and Cuffe Parade) has been scheduled at 11:59 PM on March 5. This allows ample time for fans to exit the stadium after the night match concludes and catch a metro home safely, minimising risks associated with late-night road travel or last-minute rushes.
Authorities have urged commuters to plan their journeys well in advance, check real-time metro updates via official apps or stations, and arrive early to enjoy the pre-match atmosphere without stress. The special arrangement underscores Mumbai's commitment to efficient public transport during major sporting events, helping decongest roads and promote safe, eco-friendly travel.
"Enjoy the match. Travel safe!" the public notice concludes, encapsulating the spirit of the semi-final while prioritising commuter welfare.
This initiative is part of broader preparations for the T20 World Cup semi-final at Wankhede, one of cricket's most electric venues, where India will aim to overpower a strong England side in front of a packed home crowd.
