Connector tunnel to ease commute; Mumbai Metro 3 and Bullet train integration begins; BKC set for major infra boost

An underground pedestrian passage connecting the BKC bullet train station with the BKC Metro 3 station is being planned. The underground walkway will make it easier for commuters to switch between the bullet train and metro quickly and comfortably. 7m x 7m Size of knockout wall at the BKC station, which can be demolished when the connector is formed. This is standard international practice.

Agencies | National High-Speed Rail Corporation (NHSRCL), Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL)WHY A PEDESTRIAN SUBWAY? Both Metro 3’s BKC station and the bullet train terminus are located in BKC.M

etro 3’s station is situated at the Income Tax Office (ITO) junction on the Bandra-Kurla Link.Commuters who want to reach the bullet train terminus from Metro 3’s BKC station will be reluctant to interchange the metro network to travel by Metro 2B’s ITO station, with luggage in tow.This may force a number of bullet train passengers to avoid the metro and take road transport.PROJECT DETAILSThe distance between the Metro 3 station and the bullet train terminus can be bridged by building an underground tunnel. A part of the tunnel will be built below the Vakola Nallah that criss-crosses BKC Road.

Length of the tunnel | 1.3km Depth at which the tunnel will be built |12mMethodology | Push box methodBENEFITS TO COMMUTERS Reduced trafficAvoid feeder modeLast mile connectivityAccess to quick, safe, comfortable, and reliable public transportIt is unclear whether travelators will be available to cover the 1.3 km distance, especially since passengers will be carrying luggage.A meeting was held to plan out the proposal on July 1. The BKC bullet train station will also be connected with the BKC diamond market station of line 2B —An NHSRCL official said.