Mumbai Metro Line 3: Full Guide to Route, Stations, Fares & Real Estate Impact
Mumbai’s ever-evolving transport landscape takes a giant leap with the Mumbai Metro Line 3—also known as the Aqua Line. This fully underground corridor aims to ease congestion, cut travel time, and boost real estate potential along its stretch. With its seamless connectivity from Cuffe Parade to Aarey Colony, this metro line is set to change the way Mumbaikars move and invest.
What is Mumbai Metro Line 3?
Mumbai Metro Line 3, or the Aqua Line, is the city’s first completely underground metro corridor spanning 33.5 kilometers. Connecting South Mumbai to the western suburbs, it covers 27 key locations and is designed to handle 17 lakh daily commuters.
Funded in part by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the project is a 50:50 collaboration between the Government of India and the Government of Maharashtra. With a total estimated cost of ₹37,000 crore, it’s one of the most ambitious urban mobility projects in India.
Highlights of the Aqua Line
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Mumbai Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) |
| Length | 33.5 km |
| Track Type | Fully Underground (except Aarey - At-Grade) |
| Stations | 27 |
| Estimated Daily Ridership | 17 lakh |
| Total Cost | ₹37,000 crore |
| Phased Launch | Oct 2024 to Aug 2025 |
Complete Route and Metro Stations
Phase 1: Aarey to BKC (Launched October 2024)
- Aarey Colony (At-Grade)
- SEEPZ
- MIDC
- Marol Naka
- CSMIA T2
- Sahar Road
- CSMIA T1
- Santacruz
- Vidyanagri
- BKC (Bandra Kurla Complex)
Phase 2: BKC to Worli (Operational since May 2025)
- Dharavi
- Shitladevi Temple
- Dadar
- Siddhivinayak Temple
- Worli
- Acharya Atre Chowk
Phase 3: Worli to Cuffe Parade (Expected August 2025)
- Science Museum
- Mahalaxmi
- Mumbai Central
- Grant Road
- Girgaon
- Kalbadevi
- CSMT
- Hutatma Chowk
- Churchgate
- Vidhan Bhavan
- Cuffe Parade
Key Interchange Stations
- SEEPZ – Interchange with Metro Line 6
- Marol Naka – Connects with Metro Line 1
- Mumbai Central & Mahalaxmi – Access to Western Railway
- CSMIA T2 – Links to Metro Line 7 (Red Line)
- Churchgate – Western Railway link
- CSMT – Central Line, Harbour Line & National Rail
- BKC – Future connectivity to Metro Line 2
Mumbai Metro Line 3 Fare Chart
| Distance | Fare |
|---|---|
| 0 to 3 km | ₹10 |
| 3 to 12 km | ₹20 |
| 12 to 18 km | ₹30 |
| 18 to 24 km | ₹40 |
| 24+ km | ₹50 |
Smart Travel with NCMC Card
- Tap-and-go convenience
- Free card with ₹100 initial top-up
- Available at all stations and SBI branches
Metro Timings
| Day | Time |
|---|---|
| Mon–Sat | 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM |
| Sunday | 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM |
Cutting-Edge Technology
Driverless Operations
- Fully automated (Grade 4)
- Initial runs with drivers during transition
- Advanced Alstom CBTC signalling
Train Details
- 336 air-conditioned coaches by Alstom
- Capacity: 3,000 passengers per train
- Emergency exits at both ends
MetroConnect3 App Features
- Live route updates & navigation
- e-Ticketing and recharge
- Multilingual support (English, Hindi, Marathi)
Future Extension: Colaba to Navy Nagar
A 5-km proposed extension from Cuffe Parade to Navy Nagar will serve the naval base and southernmost tip of the city. This strategic plan is under government review as of July 2025.
How Mumbai Metro Line 3 Impacts Real Estate
The Aqua Line is acting as a game-changer in Mumbai’s property market by boosting connectivity, cutting commute times, and raising the profile of emerging micro-markets.
Areas Seeing Real Estate Boom
| Location | Sale Price (₹/sq ft) | Rent (₹/sq ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Santacruz East | ₹18,800 – ₹30,500 | ₹56 – ₹90 |
| Mahalaxmi | ₹31,800 – ₹54,800 | ₹82 – ₹132 |
| Worli | ₹35,400 – ₹60,300 | ₹105 – ₹189 |
| Cuffe Parade | ₹43,100 – ₹67,700 | ₹123 – ₹194 |
| Mumbai Central | ₹45,000 – ₹70,000 | ₹125 – ₹198 |
Investment Benefits
- Capital Appreciation
- Rental Returns
- Commercial Growth
- Time Savings
- Civic Development
Environmental and Urban Benefits
- Pollution Control: 7 lakh fewer vehicles = less emissions
- Energy Efficiency: Electric trains promote green transport
- Smart Urban Design: Better planning and organized growth
Pedestrian-Friendly Infrastructure
- Safe subways and footbridges
- Pedestrian pathways to nearby destinations
- Improved station access in dense areas
Conclusion
Mumbai Metro Line 3 is more than just a new transportation route—it’s a strategic step toward building a modern, efficient, and sustainable Mumbai. With its high-end tech, underground comfort, and improved accessibility, the Aqua Line will play a key role in shaping Mumbai’s future.
For real estate investors and homebuyers, now is the time to explore opportunities around this game-changing corridor. With increased appreciation, high rental yields, and better lifestyle access, Line 3 is unlocking Mumbai’s next wave of smart urban living.
FAQs on Mumbai Metro Line 3
- What is the total length of Mumbai Metro Line 3?
It is 33.5 kilometers long, connecting Cuffe Parade to Aarey Colony. - Is Metro Line 3 fully underground?
Yes, except for Aarey Colony station, all others are underground. - What is the expected completion date?
The full line will be operational by August 2025. - How much will the fare cost for a full journey?
Maximum fare is ₹50 for journeys over 24 km. - Can I use my SBI card on the metro?
Yes, through the NCMC Card, which is SBI-enabled. - Which station connects to the airport?
CSMIA T2 and CSMIA T1 serve Mumbai International Airport. - Will this impact property prices?
Yes, property prices along the route are already rising. - What mobile app can help with travel info?
The MetroConnect3 app offers route, ticketing, and station data.