CMRS Completes Safety Inspection of Metro 4 Pit Line in Thane
The Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) has completed an inspection of the maintenance pit line on the 10.5-kilometre Gaimukh-Cadbury Junction stretch of Metro 4 in Thane, marking a key milestone ahead of starting public services.
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is now awaiting the final CMRS report. The findings will determine whether any technical modifications or extra safety measures are needed before the corridor can secure its final operating clearance.
A senior MMRDA official stated that the safety review of the facility was completed a few days ago. The pit line near Gaimukh has taken on critical importance because the main Metro 4 car shed has not yet been completed. In the absence of a depot, the pit line will serve as an interim facility for routine maintenance and safety checks on metro rakes.
The infrastructure allows engineers to inspect parts located beneath the trains, including wheels, braking systems, suspension setups, and related mechanical equipment. While extra tracks in metro networks are typically reserved for stabling trains or managing emergencies, the Gaimukh facility will handle regular rake servicing to keep the initial phase operational.
The 10.5-kilometre corridor previously cleared safety testing by the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) in June. That evaluation assessed train speeds, signalling networks, safety systems, rolling stock, and track equipment before handing over the project for CMRS scrutiny.
MMRDA plans to secure all mandatory safety and regulatory approvals to launch train services around Diwali or by the end of 2026. The initial phase features eight stations: Cadbury Junction, Majiwada, Kapurbawdi, Tikuji-ni-Wadi, Dongripada, Vijay Garden, Kasarvadavali, and Gaimukh.
Metro 4 and Metro 4A form part of the broader Wadala-Ghatkopar-Gaimukh network. The operational launch of this first stretch is intended to ease traffic bottlenecks and provide public transport alternatives along the heavily congested Ghodbunder Road corridor.
