Mumbai New Year 2026: Metro Line 3 To Run Overnight, Special Buses & Trains Planned For Smooth Travel

Mumbai is gearing up for a vibrant welcome to New Year 2026 with an extensive public transport plan aimed at ensuring safe, smooth and congestion-free movement across the city. For the first time ever, Mumbai Metro Line 3 will operate overnight, supported by special BEST buses and additional suburban railway services on both Central and Western Railways.

The coordinated effort by civic and transport authorities comes in anticipation of heavy commuter movement on the night of December 31, as thousands of citizens head out to celebrate the New Year across beaches, promenades, restaurants and public spaces.

Metro Line 3 To Operate Overnight For The First Time

In a landmark move, Mumbai Metro Line 3, also known as the Aqua Line, will operate through the night on New Year’s Eve. This marks the first instance of round-the-clock operations on the fully underground metro corridor.

The special overnight service will begin after 10:30 pm on December 31 and continue until 5:55 am on January 1, 2026. Regular metro operations will resume immediately thereafter.

Officials said the decision was taken to reduce pressure on roads, curb traffic congestion and provide a safer travel option, particularly for women, families and late-night commuters.

Aqua Line Connects Major City Hubs

Metro Line 3 runs from Cuffe Parade in South Mumbai to Aarey JVLR in the western suburbs, passing through major commercial and administrative hubs such as Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC). The 33.5-km corridor includes 27 stations, with all except Aarey JVLR being underground.

Authorities believe the overnight metro service will significantly ease movement between South Mumbai, central business districts and suburban areas during peak New Year celebrations.

BEST To Run Special Buses And Heritage Tours

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking has also announced special bus services for New Year’s Eve. Buses will operate on select routes connecting popular beaches and public gathering areas between 10 pm and 12:30 am.

Additionally, BEST will run special heritage tour buses in South Mumbai starting from 5:30 pm and continuing into the early hours of the night, offering residents and tourists a unique way to explore the city’s historic landmarks during the festive evening.

Central Railway Announces Special Suburban Services

Central Railway has planned four special suburban services during the intervening night of December 31 and January 1.

On the Main Line, a special train will depart from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) at 1:30 am and reach Kalyan at 3:00 am. The return service will leave Kalyan at 1:30 am and arrive at CSMT at 3:00 am.

On the Harbour Line, a New Year special will depart CSMT at 1:30 am and reach Panvel at 2:50 am. The return service will depart Panvel at 1:30 am and arrive at CSMT at 2:50 am.

Western Railway To Run Eight Special Trains

Western Railway will operate eight special suburban services between Churchgate and Virar—four in each direction—to accommodate late-night commuters.

Departures from Churchgate are scheduled at 1:15 am, 2:00 am, 2:30 am and 3:25 am, while return services from Virar will depart at 12:15 am, 12:45 am, 1:40 am and 3:05 am.

Railway officials said these additional services aim to ensure safe dispersal of crowds and reduce dependence on private vehicles.

Authorities Encourage Use Of Public Transport
 

With metro services running overnight, additional buses and special suburban trains in place, authorities have urged citizens to rely on public transport, avoid drunk driving and celebrate responsibly.

Officials said the expanded transport network is designed to make New Year celebrations safer, more accessible and environmentally friendly, while ensuring Mumbai enters 2026 on a smooth and organised note.