Mumbais New Year travel blitz: Overnight metro, special trains, BEST buses to ease commuter travel
Mumbai's transport authorities have rolled out an extensive New Year's Eve travel plan, featuring the first overnight operation of Metro Line 3, along with special suburban trains and additional BEST bus services to ensure safe and smooth travel amid heavy celebrations.
New Delhi: As Mumbai prepares for New Year’s Eve celebrations, the city’s transport authorities have rolled out a detailed plan, featuring the first overnight operation of the new Metro Line 3. The year-end arrangements also include additional bus services and special suburban train operations.
The fully underground Aqua Line, which runs from Cuffe Parade to Aarey JVLR via the Bandra-Kurla Complex, is scheduled to operate from 10.30 pm on December 31 until 5.55 am on January 1, 2026. Reports say the 33.5-km corridor, connecting key business and administrative hubs, is expected to provide a critical and safe travel alternative amid anticipated road congestion.
According to an official, the comprehensive plan has been rolled out primarily to ensure smooth travel and enhanced safety, particularly for women and children. He added that Mumbai witnesses massive crowds to welcome the New Year and explained that the overnight travel arrangement was implemented specifically to ease traffic congestion on city roads.
Four special trains to cater to Mumbaikars
The plans are not limited to the metro line but extend to both Central and Western Railways. These transport facilities will be available through the night as special suburban services. Central Railway will operate four special trains — two on the Main Line between CSMT and Kalyan and two on the Harbour Line between CSMT and Panvel — with departures from CSMT at 1.30 am.
Western Railway will operate eight special services between Churchgate and Virar, with departures from Churchgate scheduled at 1.15 am, 2.00 am, 2.30 am, and 3.25 am. Corresponding return journeys from Virar will begin at 12.15 am.
Overnight bus services for tourists
The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking is also set to extend connectivity by deploying special buses on routes to popular beaches from 10.00 pm to 12.30 am. Additionally, heritage tour buses in South Mumbai will operate into the early hours, beginning at 5.30 pm.
Authorities have urged the public to make use of the enhanced transport network. With overnight metro services, additional buses, and special suburban trains in operation, the integrated plan aims to ensure safe, hassle-free travel and encourage responsible celebrations as Mumbai rings in 2026.