KALYAN: Amid rapid urban expansion and rising commuter stress across Thane district’s satellite cities, the state government recently has unveiled a substantial funding allocation to accelerate metro and road infrastructure works in the Kalyan–Badlapur corridor. The investment, channelled through the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), is aimed at decongesting overcrowded suburban rail routes and strengthening regional connectivity.The ₹4,897.19 crore provision was announced during the presentation of MMRDA’s 2026–27 budget at a meeting chaired by deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde. Officials said the allocation reflects the urgent need for long-term mobility solutions as population growth, industrial development, and vehicular traffic continue to strain existing infrastructure.According to authorities, a major portion of the funds will support the expansion of the metro network. The budget outlines funds allocated for major projects: Metro Line 5 (Thane–Bhiwandi–Kalyan): ₹1,309.30 crore; Metro Line 5A (Durgadi–Ulhasnagar extension): ₹183.35 crore; Metro Line 12 (Kalyan–Taloja): ₹1,054.54 crore; Metro Line 14 (Kanjurmarg–Badlapur): ₹500 crore; Kalyan–Shilphata Junction to Bhiwandi flyover: ₹150 crore; Kalyan Ring Road: ₹600 crore; Vitthalwadi–Kalyan Ahilyanagar elevated road: ₹200 crore; and Airoli–Katai Freeway (Phase 3): ₹900 crore.Among the most significant announcements is the ₹500 crore sanction for Metro Line 14 (Kanjurmarg–Badlapur). The corridor is expected to provide relief to lakhs of daily railway commuters travelling to Mumbai and Thane from Badlapur, Ambernath, Kalyan and Dombivli, many of whom currently endure packed suburban trains.Transport planners believe the line will emerge as a crucial alternative mode, offering faster and more comfortable connectivity across the Badlapur to Thane and Mumbai belt.Similarly, the Metro Line 5A extension up to Ulhasnagar is being viewed as another potential game changer. By linking Ulhasnagar more directly with Metro Line 5 (Kalyan Bhiwandi-Thane) and further to Mumbai, the project is expected to improve last-mile connectivity, reduce road congestion, and strengthen integration with the broader metro network.MP Dr. Shrikant Shinde, who represents the Kalyan Lok Sabha constituency, welcomed the allocation and credited sustained follow-up with the state government and MMRDA for securing the funds. He expressed gratitude to chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde, stating that multiple projects are already underway and the fresh funding will help ensure their timely completion.Urban development experts say the combined metro and road investments mark a pivotal step towards structured urbanisation in the Kalyan–Badlapur belt. Once operational, the projects are expected to reshape commuting patterns, enhance economic activity, and significantly improve quality of life for residents across one of the fastest-growing suburban corridors in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.The citizens also welcome state government decisions saying it will bring major relief to commutters who in these region primary depends upon rail network for transport and travels in packed train risking their life.
