Heavy rains cause leaks at Aqua Line’s Kalina station, sparking concerns among commuters; Visual interface

Mumbai: The Aqua Line or Metro 3, which began operations on October 4th, faced a test early on as heavy rains led to significant leaks at the Kalina metro station. Commuters and citizens expressed their disappointment on social media, sharing images and videos of the flooded station and raising concerns about the durability and readiness of the infrastructure.

Metro Line 3, a crucial addition to Mumbai’s public transport network, was intended to ease traffic congestion in the city. But just a few days after it went into operation, the leaks at Kalina station cast a shadow over the ambitious project. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) had touted the project as a game-changer that promised state-of-the-art facilities and a seamless commuter experience.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with water pouring from the ceilings and puddles forming on the station’s floors. Many commuters were seen navigating the slippery surfaces with caution while some expressed frustration at the inconvenience caused. “Mumbai’s new Aqua Line can’t survive even a week,” Zoru Bhathena posted on X (formerly Twitter) along with a video of a leaking roof.

In response to the video, the The quality of work is questionable posted.” Another got mm rain?”

Taking the issue seriously, the MMRCL spokesperson said, “At Santacruz metro station during heavy rains yesterday, a gutter at one of the entrances overflowed and some of the rainwater entered the entrance.” The issue will be addressed immediately. There is no chance of it occurring again. There is no impact on the station’s operations and it remains fully operational.”

Phase one of the 12.34 km long Metro 3 between Aarey Colony and Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 4. It has 10 stations, while 96 connections with nine trains run daily between 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. On Sundays and public holidays, church services start at 8:30 a.m. MMRCL has a total of 48 train drivers, of which 10 are women. The frequency of each train is six and a half minutes during peak hours.

MMRCL expects to serve around 4 lakh people daily in the first phase, which will result in a reduction of 6.65 lakh vehicle journeys per day. Likewise, it will help reduce fuel consumption by 3.45 million liters per day and reduce traffic on the roads by 35%. Once fully operational, the Aqua Line will carry an estimated 17,000 passengers daily with 260 services.

The fares for Phase 1 of Metro 3 range from Rs 10 to Rs 50 depending on the distance. The maximum price will be increased once the second phase between BKC and Cuffe Parade becomes operational.