Construct Mumbai Metro underground, demands group

A group of NGOs and citizen groups (under Apna Mumbai Abhiyaan), wants the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to construct the Mumbai Metro line II underground. The planning authority says it would be an elevated corridor. The NGO group feels even though the elevated project costs less, the delay in its completion, including cost escalation, shifting of utilities, among other factors, will be a major hurdle.
The group pointed out that Andheri-Bandra is one of the most congested land masses in the world. With 7,000 sq mt of footpath to be occupied by stairs, lifts and escalators, the group questioned whether the pavements for the same were available. It also said 32 km of sewer lines, 12.5 km water lines and 11 km of gas lines will have to be re-laid.