Maha Mumbai Metro conducts advanced system trials across new corridors: All you need to know

The Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL) has started advanced system trials across its new corridors as part of a major technology upgrade. The move is aimed at modernising Mumbai’s metro and monorail systems to improve safety, reliability, and commuter convenience.

Focus on technology upgrades

MMMOCL said the ongoing trials are part of its wider plan to strengthen the city’s transport network through the adoption of advanced systems and automation. One of the key upgrades under trial is the Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) system, a next-generation signalling technology supplied by Medha SMH Rail Pvt. Ltd., the contractor for the project.

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The new system keeps a constant link between each train and the central control room, allowing smoother coordination on the network. It is expected to cut waiting time, prevent signal-related delays and make daily travel safer for passengers.

Officials said engineers are currently running the system through a range of trials under different operating conditions - from normal runs to stress tests that simulate difficult or emergency situations. The idea, they said, is to study how the technology reacts in real time and make any necessary adjustments before it becomes part of daily operations.

Minor incident reported during internal trial

During one of the recent routine signalling trials, a minor incident occurred, but officials confirmed that the situation was quickly contained. There were no injuries to any staff or personnel. MMMOCL explained that the trial was not an operational failure but rather a component of its controlled testing procedure.

“These exercises are standard internal trials meant to test system responses under extreme conditions to ensure complete preparedness before deployment,” the release stated. The corporation also urged citizens not to panic, reaffirming that these trials are strictly internal and are carried out to strengthen system safety and performance.

Regular trials remain unaffected

According to the corporation, the broader schedule of trials, overseen by Medha SMH Rail Pvt. Ltd., continues without interruption. To keep the project on track and minimise inconvenience, some tests are being conducted on holidays. MMMOCL said it remains committed to global safety standards and is working towards delivering a secure, efficient, and world-class urban transport system for Mumbai.

The spokesperson added that these trials are essential to ensuring that new technologies are seamlessly integrated into Mumbai’s fast-growing metro and monorail network.

In September 2025, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) paused monorail services to carry out essential upgrades. The break was meant to give engineers time to install new rakes, update the signalling system, and fine-tune the network without disruption. It also allowed older rakes to undergo a full mechanical overhaul to make them more reliable for daily use.

The current round of trials by Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL) builds on that groundwork. Officials said these tests are the final stage before the upgraded system is opened to the public.