BL reported that Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority is planning a 100 kilometer network of monorail in the Mumbai metropolitan area in next seven years. The project is likely to cost about INR 12,000 crore.

As per report the work for laying the first phase 19.54 kilometer line is already under way. The line will connect Gadge Maharaj Chowk in central Mumbai with Chembur Station in the eastern suburb.

A source close to the development said that the MMRDA has already given the task of preparing detail project report to an international consultant. Areas such as Kalyan, Bhiwandi, Panvel in the metropolitan area would get benefited from the expanded network.
Advantages

MMRDA is keen to set up the monorail system as it can be easily built. In comparison to other mass transport systems the monorail takes much less time to build. The Maharashtra Government, which is controlling MMRDA, wants to showcase it as an achievement to the people.

The first phase of the system is being developed by a consortium led by Larsen & Toubro and Malaysia-based Scomi Engineering Bhd. The INR 2,460 crore order for a 19.54 kilometer stretch has been awarded to the consortium by MMRDA in November 2008.

Scomi is among the top three global monorail manufacturers offering urban transportation solutions such as monorail electro-mechanical systems and rolling stock.

(Sourced from Business Line)