Thane achieved a major milestone in its public transport development on Monday as the first trial run of Metro Line 4 was successfully conducted on a 10-kilometre stretch between Cadbury Junction and Kasarvadavali.

The event marked a significant step toward improving connectivity in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and reducing traffic congestion for millions of commuters.

The trial run was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik.

The dignitaries inspected the trial coaches, reviewed project progress, and assessed the readiness of the Phase-1 priority section of Metro Line 4 along with its extension, Metro Line 4A.

Speaking at the event, CM Fadnavis highlighted the importance of the ₹16,000-crore, 35-kilometre-long corridor, which will connect Mumbai’s eastern and western suburbs with Thane. He stated that once fully operational, the metro line will feature eight-coach trains, cut travel time by nearly 50%, ease road traffic, and benefit more than 21 lakh commuters every day.

Fadnavis also credited Deputy CM Eknath Shinde for overcoming land acquisition challenges related to the Mogharpada depot, which is critical for metro operations. He further acknowledged Minister Pratap Sarnaik’s contribution to expediting the project’s progress.

When completed, Metro Lines 4 and 4A will collectively span over 58 kilometres, making it one of India’s longest metro corridors. Officials said the project will provide a safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly transportation option, benefiting students, professionals, and daily commuters alike.

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik added that the metro line will transform the region’s public transport ecosystem, significantly reducing the burden on roads and complementing the suburban rail network.

With the successful trial run completed, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is targeting December 2025 for the operational launch of the first phase for passenger service.