How Mumbai is gearing up for 2026: Overnight Metro, BEST buses and special locals for New Year’s Eve

• Mumbai Metro Line 3 to run overnight for New Year's Eve celebrations
• Special suburban trains and buses to operate through the night on December 31
• Plan aims to ease congestion and enhance safety for festive crowds

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In an unprecedented move to accommodate the city’s massive year-end festivities, Mumbai’s transport authorities have unveiled a comprehensive plan featuring the first-ever overnight operation of the new Metro Line 3, alongside a significant expansion of suburban train and bus services for New Year’s Eve.

The fully underground Aqua Line, which connects Cuffe Parade to Aarey JVLR via the Bandra-Kurla Complex, will run continuously from 10.30 pm on December 31 until 5.55 am on January 1, 2026. The 33.5-km corridor, linking key business and administrative hubs, is expected to provide a critical, safe travel alternative amid anticipated road congestion, FPJ reported.

An official said that the decision was taken to ensure smooth travel and enhance safety, particularly for women and families. The official further stated that Mumbai typically sees huge crowds to welcome the New Year and explained that the overnight travel plan was implemented specifically to avoid traffic congestion on the roads.

Complementing the metro’s extended hours, both Central and Western Railway will operate special suburban services through the night. Central Railway will run four specials — two on the Main Line between CSMT and Kalyan and two on the Harbour Line between CSMT and Panvel — with departures from CSMT at 1.30 am.

Western Railway will operate eight special services between Churchgate and Virar, with departures from Churchgate scheduled at 1.15 am, 2.00 am, 2.30 am and 3.25 am. Corresponding return journeys from Virar will begin from 12.15 am.

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking will bolster connectivity further by deploying special buses on routes to popular beaches from 10 pm to 12.30 am. Additionally, heritage tour buses in South Mumbai will operate into the early hours, beginning at 5.30 pm.

Authorities have reportedly urged the public to leverage the enhanced network. With round-the-clock metro, additional buses and special trains all activated, the integrated plan is designed to facilitate safe, hassle-free travel and encourage responsible celebrations as Mumbai rings in 2026.