Mumbai Monorail Services Suspended from September 20: Here’s Why and What’s Next
Mumbai’s popular monorail is hitting pause for a bit. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) announced a temporary suspension of monorail services starting September 20. This move aims to upgrade the system and make it ready for the future, tackling recent technical glitches that have been causing headaches for commuters.
The main reason? Only 3.5 hours each night—between 11:30 PM and 6:15 AM—were available for crucial work like installing new trains (called rakes) and advanced signalling systems. Safety rules mean they have to switch off the power rail, discharge it, and recharge it every day, which slows things down big time. By suspending services completely, MMRDA can get uninterrupted access to finish installations, testing, and overhauls on older rakes. They’ll also train staff for upcoming metro operations.
Services between Chembur and Sant Gadge Maharaj Chowk in both directions will stop until further notice. If you’re a regular rider, plan your Mumbai commute wisely—maybe switch to buses, local trains, or other options to avoid the hassle. MMRDA has even set up a committee to investigate recent issues and ensure everything runs smoothly long-term.
Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, MMRDA’s Metropolitan Commissioner, called this a smart step to breathe new life into the Mumbai monorail. "This temporary suspension is all about making the system safer and more reliable," he said. "We’re adding new Make-in-India rakes, rolling out cutting-edge CBTC signalling, and fixing up the old fleet. We appreciate your patience—Mumbai monorail will come back stronger, serving the city with better speed and confidence."
So, what’s in store for these upgrades? MMRDA is installing a homegrown Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) system, developed in Hyderabad. It’s a first for Mumbai’s monorail and promises shorter train intervals, better safety, and fewer breakdowns. The setup includes five electronic interlockings at 32 spots, 260 Wi-Fi points, 500 RFID tags, 90 train detectors, and more. Wayside signalling is done, and testing is underway.
On the rake front, they’ve teamed up with SMH Rail to get 10 new ones from MEDHA, an Indian company. Eight are already here, the ninth is ready for checks, and the tenth is wrapping up assembly. This will boost the fleet and make Mumbai’s public transport backbone even sturdier.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and MMRDA Chairman Eknath Shinde echoed the excitement. "These Mumbai monorail upgrades are key to safer, more dependable rides for everyone," he said. "With new rakes and CBTC signalling, plus refurbishing the old ones, we’ll deliver top-notch service. Thanks to Mumbaikars for bearing with us—this short break will make the monorail return in top form."
If you’re relying on the Mumbai monorail for your daily grind, keep an eye on official updates from MMRDA for when services resume. These changes could transform how you zip around the city!
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