Mumbai: Metro Line 5, connecting Thane and Bhiwandi, is moving closer to opening, with trial runs scheduled to begin next week after the arrival of its first train set. The 11.9-km first phase is tentatively scheduled to open in December 2026, or by the end of the 2026-27 financial year.

The train set, borrowed from Metro Lines 2A and 7, was transported to Line 5 during Navratri. The coaches were moved from the Mandale depot to Metro Line 4 in Thane and then transferred to Line 5 through the interchange at Kasarvadavali.

The first phase will connect Balkum Naka in Thane to Dhamankar Naka in Bhiwandi, with stations at Balkum, Kasheli, Kalher, Purna and Anjurphata, besides the two terminal stations. It is expected to significantly reduce travel time for workers commuting to Bhiwandi’s warehouses and workplaces. Journeys that currently take 45 minutes or more during peak hours could be cut to around 25 minutes.

Initially, trains are expected to operate at intervals of five to six minutes, using spare BEML train sets from the Mandale depot. These will serve as an interim arrangement until the train sets ordered specifically for Line 5 arrive next year.

Tracks and overhead electrical equipment were energised in early October, while finishing work at stations continues. Trial runs are expected to continue for several months, followed by safety clearance from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety before passenger services can begin.

The project’s estimated cost is Rs 6,741 crore. The second phase, extending towards Kalyan and Ulhasnagar, has a 2030-31 deadline.