India’s Aqua Line Redefines Mumbai’s Public Transport with Unprecedented Comfort, Speed, and Efficiency Revolutionizing City Travel

Published on December 12, 2025

India’s Aqua Line is setting a new benchmark for Mumbai’s public transport system, offering commuters an unparalleled combination of comfort, speed, and efficiency. With its state-of-the-art design, air-conditioned trains, and smooth connectivity, it has transformed the way people navigate the bustling city. Unlike the overcrowded local trains, the Aqua Line promises a more relaxed, faster journey, cutting down travel times significantly. This metro line not only provides a modern, comfortable travel experience but also addresses long-standing issues like overcrowding and lack of air-conditioning, making it a game-changer for both everyday commuters and travelers heading to the airport.

Aqua Line Review: A Convenient Diwali Getaway in Mumbai

A long weekend, a car at my disposal, and the perfect opportunity to get away for a Diwali reset—Mumbai was calling. I had plans to catch up with friends in Dadar, but my usual routine of taking the Blue Line to Andheri station and hopping on a local train felt like it needed a twist this time. The newly opened Aqua Line offered the promise of air-conditioned comfort and impressively fast travel times, so I decided to give it a try.

Having already ridden the Aqua Line once last year (before it reached its full extension to Dadar Metro), I was eager to see how it had improved. My journey took me from the Blue Line (Versova-Ghatkopar) to Marol Naka, where I made the switch to the Aqua Line, heading straight to Dadar Metro. Here’s what I experienced.

The Pros of the Aqua Line

1. Clean Stations and Trains
   A standout feature of the Aqua Line is its cleanliness. Given Mumbai’s often crowded and less-maintained local trains, stepping onto a spotless platform and a well-kept train was a refreshing change. Despite being nearly a year since the Aqua Line’s launch, the upkeep is still impressive, showcasing the commitment to maintaining high standards.
2. Modern and Stylish Aesthetics
   The aesthetic appeal of the Aqua Line stations and trains cannot be ignored. The color scheme is calming and modern, with turquoise highlights throughout. This design choice provides a clean, airy atmosphere that doesn’t feel overdone, offering a pleasant travel experience.
3. Less Crowded Than Expected
   Mumbai is infamous for its overcrowded trains, but on this ride, the Aqua Line felt spacious, especially with the Diwali holiday helping ease the usual rush. Reports suggest that the trains generally offer more seating and less congestion, making it a welcome alternative for commuters.
4. Affordable Ticket Prices
   While the ticket fares aren’t the cheapest in the city, they strike a reasonable balance when compared to the comfort and convenience offered. The price is fair for a metro that cuts down travel time and enhances the overall experience. It’s a solid deal for those seeking a reliable, comfortable way to get around.

The Cons of the Aqua Line

1. Confusing Entry and Exit Points
   One of the drawbacks I encountered was the lack of clarity regarding the entry and exit points at Marol Naka. The interchange between the Blue Line and Aqua Line was not as seamless as I had hoped. To switch, passengers must exit the station and walk a short distance to the Aqua Line entrance. First-time users may find this process confusing and inconvenient, particularly if they’re unfamiliar with the area.
2. Isolated Elevators
   At Marol Naka, the elevator is tucked away in a dark, secluded corner, with little to no signage indicating its location. This is especially concerning for elderly passengers or those who rely on elevators for accessibility. The lack of clear directions or lighting creates an unsettling environment, particularly for late-night travelers.
3. Ticket Counter Cash Handling Issues
   Another inconvenience was the lack of change at the ticket counter. While many people would opt for the automated machines or use UPI payments, it’s surprising that no provisions are made for passengers needing small change. This can be an unnecessary delay, especially when the machine is unavailable or malfunctioning.
4. Narrow Platform Entrances
   Though the platforms themselves are spacious, the narrow entrances could present problems in the future as ridership grows. This could potentially cause bottlenecks, particularly during rush hours. The current design may require adjustments to accommodate higher passenger volumes down the line.
5. Absence of BEST Feeder Buses
   At both Marol Naka and Dadar Metro stations, I didn’t spot any BEST feeder buses, which would have been a convenient addition to enhance the commuting experience. The absence of feeder buses means passengers may have to rely on taxis or autos, which are often unpredictable and inconvenient. Adding buses would ensure smoother connectivity for commuters, making the system more efficient.
6. Train Noise
   While the Aqua Line’s trains were generally comfortable, I did notice that they were somewhat noisy, particularly during the underground sections. This wasn’t a major issue, but compared to other metro systems, which tend to be quieter, this noise could detract from the overall experience. It’s something I hope will be addressed in future improvements.

India’s Aqua Line is revolutionizing Mumbai’s public transport by offering a seamless combination of comfort, speed, and efficiency. With air-conditioned trains and smooth connectivity, it provides a faster, more comfortable journey, making it a game-changer for commuters and travelers alike.

Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Commuters and Travelers

Despite the minor drawbacks, I firmly believe the Aqua Line will become a game-changer for commuters, particularly for those traveling to and from the airport. The line offers a reliable, affordable, and comfortable way to get around, making it an ideal choice for those heading to Terminal 2, where airport cabs often come with high fares and availability issues.

For regular travelers, adding luggage racks to the coaches, as seen in other metro systems like the Delhi Metro Airport Express Line, would enhance convenience further. A 24×7 service (even with fewer stops) would also significantly improve accessibility, making the Aqua Line an even more valuable part of Mumbai’s transport network. As it stands, the Aqua Line already offers a glimpse of what modern, efficient public transportation can look like in one of the world’s busiest cities, and it’s clear that it will only continue to improve in the future.