The Navi Mumbai Metro has missed another deadline. Scheduled to open on August 15, its launch has been pushed further now. The first phase—Pendhar Park to Taloja Central Park built by the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO)—has been ready for operations, but is awaiting the nod from authorities despite having all permissions in place, said sources.

Amit Bhivande, who travels from Sanpada to Taloja for work, said he has been eagerly waiting for the Navi Mumbai Metro to start operations. “As Taloja doesn’t have any public transport other than buses, people are forced to use private vehicles,” said Bhivande. “If we get the option of Metro, it will be a huge relief as it will be faster than road commute.”