MMMOCL Conducts Advanced Monorail Trials In Mumbai; Minor Incident Reported During Routine Test

A monorail coach tilted during a system trial at the Wadala–GTB Nagar station in Mumbai on Wednesday (5 November) morning, prompting an immediate response from the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) and technical teams from the Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Ltd. (MMMOCL).

The incident occurred at around 9 am near the RTO Junction in Wadala (East). No passengers were onboard, and no injuries were reported.

In a detailed clarification, MMMOCL stated that the mishap took place during advanced system trials under its ongoing technology upgradation programme, which includes the installation of Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling technology being implemented by Medha SMH Rail Pvt. Ltd., the project contractor.

“The exercise was carried out in a fully protected environment, strictly adhering to all safety protocols. These trials are designed to simulate extreme or 'worst-case' scenarios to evaluate system responses and ensure complete preparedness before actual deployment. Hence, such controlled situations are a part of the standard testing process,” the agency said.

Two technical staff members, including the operator, were onboard during the controlled trial.

MMMOCL stressed that these are routine validation tests to improve operational safety, efficiency, and reliability.

"MMMOCL assures that these are only internal system trials. Citizens are therefore requested not to panic. Regular trials, being conducted by Medha SMH Rail Pvt. Ltd., remain unaffected," it added.

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), which owns the monorail system, has suspended all services since 20 September 2025 to facilitate a comprehensive modernisation drive, including fleet renewal, installation of new CBTC-based signalling, and infrastructure upgrades.

The tilt follows a series of recent technical setbacks. On 20 August, a monorail broke down between Chembur and Bhakti Park during heavy rainfall, stranding over 500 passengers.

Another snag on 15 September near Wadala led to the emergency evacuation of 17 passengers, disrupting services for over two hours.

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