The scheme stressed naming stations after existing toponyms, sights and attractions (if any) rather than simply after neighbouring vertical streets, making it easier for visitors to find these places.

Because of Baoshan Road station - Hongqiao Road station section is covered with line 4 service, line 3 operates on a comparatively looser schedule, with an average interval of around 7 minutes (5 minutes in the peak hours).

[citation needed] However, riders can expect a 2-minute train interval at any one of the shared-line stations during rush hour.

Line 3 has been operating over capacity due to large passenger flows for a number of years.

In June 2021 it was announced that Shanghai Metro has started to update of the signal system and finish before December 31, 2024.

CASCO successfully won the bid for the renewal and transformation of the signaling using Qiji TACS system.