MUMBAI
MMRDA metropolitan commissioner Ratnakar Gaikwad said, 'We broadly explored various options. We discussed how we can extend the existing alignments of the metro networks in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai so as to connect the airports.'
The City Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) and Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) have begun talks for direct metro connectivity between the Mumbai airport and the proposed one at Navi Mumbai. Earlier this week, the agencies had an initial round of talks.
MMRDA metropolitan commissioner Ratnakar Gaikwad said, “We broadly explored various options. We discussed how we can extend the existing alignments of the metro networks in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai so as to connect the airports,” said Gaikwad.
The underground portion of the metro connecting Bandra Kurla Complex and the old airport may be extended up to Eastern Express Highway. From there, it can take a straight route up to the new airport.
“The final decision will require a lot of consultation and feasibility analysis. Cidco and MMRDA officials will meet on a monthly basis for the same,” he said.
He added that plans for projects like like a multimodal corridor between Alibaug and Virar and the Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link (MTHL) will be modified in such a way that they have airport connectivity. Cidco and MMRDA have asked Lea Associates [which has the experience of preparing a comprehensive transport study for the MMR] to explore various options.