ThinkScopeMumbai Metro Line 9 to Open Without Platform Screen Doors
Key Highlights
- Metro Line 9 Phase I will begin operations without platform screen doors (PSDs).
- First Mumbai Metro corridor without PSDs since Metro Line 1 (2014).
- CMRS safety inspection currently underway for Phase I.
- Line 9 connects Dahisar East and Kashigaon in Mira Bhayandar.
What’s Different About Metro Line 9?
Metro Line 9 will start services without platform screen doors, making it an exception among Mumbai’s newer metro corridors. All lines commissioned after Metro Line 1 — including Lines 2A, 7, and the underground Line 3 — operate with PSDs at stations.
Safety Clearance in Progress
The Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) has begun the mandatory inspection for Phase I of Metro Line 9. This inspection is the final statutory requirement before the corridor can be opened for passenger services.
MMRDA’s Position on Platform Screen Doors
In April 2024, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) issued tenders for rolling stock, CBTC signalling, telecommunications, depot machinery, and platform screen doors. However, officials have not confirmed whether PSD installation has been postponed until the full commissioning of Metro Line 9 and the Line 7A extension to Mumbai’s T1 airport.
Seamless Connectivity With Metro Line 7
Metro Line 9 is an extension of Metro Line 7 and has been designed for integrated operations. Once Phase I receives CMRS approval, commuters will be able to travel from Kashigaon to Gundavali via Dahisar by interchanging with Line 7, which is fully operational and equipped with PSDs at all stations.
Safety Measures Without PSDs
Platform screen doors are considered a vital safety feature in high-density metro networks. In their absence, Metro Line 9 stations will rely on:
- Platform edge markings
- Warning signage
- CCTV surveillance and monitoring
- Station staff supervision during peak hours
Platform Screen Doors in Other Indian Metro Systems
Across India, PSDs are currently operational in several metro networks, including:
- Chennai Metro (underground stations)
- Delhi Metro (Yellow, Pink, Magenta, and Airport Express lines)
- Noida Metro
- Kolkata Metro Line 2
Metro systems in cities such as Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Pune, and Nagpur are also planning to expand the use of platform screen doors in future corridors.
