• Source:JND
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The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) has tied up with private operators Cityflo and Navkar Travels to run feeder bus services for commuters from seven key underground stations of Mumbai Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line), which include Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Worli, CSMT, Vidyanagari, Siddhivinayak, Cuffe Parade, and SEEPZ.

The feeder bus initiative is designed to connect all 27 stations along Metro Line 3, which stretches 33.5 km entirely underground. These buses will offer convenient last-mile connectivity between metro stations and nearby residential as well as commercial hubs. 

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The MMRC intends to launch the service in phases to enhance accessibility from stations to workplaces and housing areas. The 12.44-km Aarey–BKC section became operational in October 2024, followed by a 9.77-km extension up to Worli that commenced services in May this year.

Mumbai Metro Line 3 Feeder Bus Service: Timings And Number Of Buses 

According to MMRC officials, the new feeder buses will operate during morning and evening rush hours, from 7am to 11am and 4pm to 8pm, at 10-minute intervals.

BEST’s fleet has dropped from 3,166 buses in November 2024 to just 2,693 this month, forcing MMRC to look for private partnerships.

“This will be a three-month trial run without financial assistance to operators. Based on the ridership data and commuter feedback, we’ll finalise routes, revenue-sharing terms and possible integration with metro ticketing platforms,” said R Ramana, director (Planning and Non-Fare Box Revenue), MMRC.

Mumbai Metro Line 3 Feeder Bus Service: Ticket Booking 

In the trial phase, only essential facilities such as bus stop signboards and wayfinding kiosks within station concourses will be installed. Commuters will be able to purchase tickets using the Cityflo or Navkar Travels mobile applications, or through the Metro Connect 3 platform.

Mumbai Metro Line 3 Feeder Bus Service: Key Stations 

The initial phase will include six major stations, SEEPZ, MIDC, Marol Naka, Airport, Sahar Road, and Gundavli. A total of 92 routes have been planned under the project. The tender is open to both small and large bus operators, with selected firms expected to run the routes under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

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MMRC is coordinating with multiple agencies such as private developers, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), and the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) to enhance commuter convenience.