Mumbai Metro-3 train breaks down ahead of PM Modi’s inauguration, passengers evacuated

While the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd confirmed that all other trains continued to run as per schedule, passengers reported delays and overcrowding on adjoining services.

Written by Vallabh Ozarkar

Mumbai | October 3, 2025 05:30 PM IST

2 min read

The affected train was subsequently taken to the Bandra-Kurla Complex loop line for inspection. (Source: X/ @MumbaiMetro3)

Just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the final stretch of Mumbai’s flagship underground Colaba–Bandra–SEEPZ Metro-3 corridor, a train on the line broke down near Santacruz station on Friday afternoon. The incident forced the evacuation of passengers and raised concerns about the preparedness of the much-delayed project.

The breakdown occurred at 2.44 pm when a train heading towards Acharya Atre Chowk developed a technical snag while approaching Santacruz, according to officials.

The affected train was subsequently taken to the Bandra-Kurla Complex loop line for inspection.

While the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRC) confirmed that all other trains continued to run as per schedule, passengers reported delays and overcrowding on adjoining services.

“This particular train service was cancelled; however, all other trains continued to run on time. We regret the inconvenience caused to passengers and appreciate their cooperation. Passenger safety remains our highest priority, and necessary protocols were promptly followed to ensure safe operations,” the MMRCL said in a statement.

The breakdown comes at a sensitive time for the project. The fully underground 33.5 km Metro-3 corridor — described as a game-changer for north–south connectivity — is slated to be inaugurated on October 8, when PM Modi will flag off the final stretch from Acharya Atre Road to Cuffe Parade. The Prime Minister had earlier inaugurated the Aarey–BKC phase in October 2024 and the BKC–Worli Naka/Acharya Atre Road phase in May 2025.

The incident has once again raised concerns about the reliability of Mumbai’s new Metro systems. Transport activists warned that glitches, if not resolved before full commissioning, could undermine commuter confidence in the corridor, which was built at a cost of over Rs 33,000 crore after years of delays and legal battles.

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During his two-day visit, PM Modi will also inaugurate the Navi Mumbai International Airport and the first phase of Metro Line-2B (Mandale to Chembur/Diamond Garden).

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