PM Modi Launches Navi Mumbai Airport and Metro Phase 2B

MUMBAI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Phase 1 of the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) on Wednesday, a significant development in India's aviation sector. Built at a cost of Rs 19,650 crore, this new airport spans 1,160 hectares and aims to alleviate the traffic congestion at the existing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. The airport is expected to commence domestic operations in December 2025, followed by international flights two months later.

The NMIA is designed to be one of the most modern and eco-friendly airports in India. It will feature an integrated system connecting all terminals, enhancing passenger convenience. Notably, the airport will offer a unique 'One-Up End-to-End Baggage Facility' app for direct check-in at the metro station. The facility will also generate 47 MW of solar power and operate electric buses to promote green mobility.

In addition to the airport, PM Modi inaugurated Phase 2B of the Mumbai Metro Line-3, which runs from Acharya Atre Chowk to Cuffe Parade, at a cost of Rs 12,200 crore. This project is part of the larger Rs 37,270 crore Mumbai Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line), marking a significant advancement in urban transport for the city.

The Prime Minister also launched the Mumbai One app, which provides commuters with integrated mobile ticketing options across various public transport services. Furthermore, he introduced the Short-Term Employability Program (STEP) initiative, aimed at enhancing skill development across 400 government ITIs and 150 Government Technical High Schools in Maharashtra.

The NMIA, once fully operational, is projected to handle 90 million passengers and 3.25 million metric tonnes of cargo annually, establishing a multi-airport system in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. This development is expected to position Mumbai as a key player in global aviation, significantly boosting the region's air traffic capacity.