In a major move aimed at improving efficiency and coordination across Mumbai’s expanding metro network, the Maharashtra government has set up a high-level committee to explore the integration of multiple metro agencies under a single Unified Metro Rail Authority for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
The decision marks a crucial step toward streamlining operations, reducing administrative overlaps, and offering a seamless commuting experience to millions of passengers.
Unified Metro Authority in the Works
According to a government resolution (GR) issued by the Urban Development Department on November 6, the newly formed committee will study the challenges arising from the current multi-agency structure and recommend a unified operational framework.
The committee will be chaired by Sanjay Mukherjee, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA, and will include senior officials from key transport bodies and departments.
The move comes as Mumbai’s metro ecosystem continues to expand rapidly, with multiple lines managed by different entities including the Mumbai Metro One Pvt Ltd (MMOPL), Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Ltd (MMMOCL), and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
Integration for Seamless Commuting
In a post on X, Mukherjee said that the step is vital now that “metro lines are getting commissioned one by one.” He added that this integration effort aligns with the launch of the Mumbai One App, which allows commuters to plan complete journeys across multiple transport modes such as bus, train, and metro within the MMR.
The creation of a unified metro authority is expected to bring consistency in fare systems, operations, ticketing technology, and passenger services, similar to models adopted in global metropolitan cities like London and Singapore.
Toward a Smarter Urban Transport System
Mumbai currently has over 350 km of metro lines either operational, under construction, or in the planning stages. With multiple agencies handling these projects, coordination challenges have often led to delays and inefficiencies.
The new committee’s recommendations could lay the foundation for a single governing body that oversees metro operations across the MMR — ensuring a cohesive, commuter-friendly, and digitally integrated transport system.
