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Metro Line 6, which will run from Swami Samarth Nagar in Andheri (West) to Vikhroli, is expected to begin operations without the much-debated metro car depot at Kanjurmarg. Since the depot will take a few more years to be completed, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has a special
alternative plan. At the Vikhroli end, an elevated eight-lane structure with pit lines will be built for train maintenance. This step is part of MMRDA's larger idea of operating metro lines without depending fully on traditional depots.
Maintenance of Metro Trains
MMRDA is aiming to begin Metro 6 in the second half of 2026. According to officials, eight elevated pit lines will be constructed, allowing for regular checks and routine maintenance of the metro trains. For major overhauls that are done periodically, the trains will be taken to the Mandale depot. Work has already begun on the elevated deck, which will run alongside the Eastern Expressway.
Earlier, MMRDA had requested 15 hectares of land at Kanjurmarg for the metro depot. However, since the land is classified as salt pan land, it is stuck in various government approval processes. Officials stated that even after getting the land, it would take at least two to three years to build the depot. With the new elevated maintenance plan and smaller pit lines near stations where possible, Metro 6 can begin operations without waiting for the Kanjurmarg depot.
Operational Trains to Connect Eastern & Western Suburbs
Sources said enough trains are available to run this 15.31-km metro line, which will connect the eastern and western suburbs. Earlier, six to eight trains would be sufficient, running every six to eight minutes. By the time passenger demand increases, the Kanjurmarg depot is expected to be ready.
Meanwhile, MMRDA is close to securing land from the government, the forest, and private owners for a few stations on this route. Station work is already underway, and the connecting girders have been completed.
