Mumbai, Maharashtra — Mumbai is on the brink of a transportation revolution as the highly anticipated Coastal Road Project nears its final stages of completion. Designed to alleviate the city’s chronic traffic congestion, the project is poised to redefine urban mobility, significantly cutting travel time between South Mumbai and the western suburbs.

Transformative Urban Mobility

The Coastal Road Project, officially named the Dharmveer Sambhaji Maharaj Coastal Road, spans 29.2 kilometers, connecting Marine Lines in South Mumbai to Kandivali in the western suburbs. The first phase, a 10.58-kilometer stretch from Marine Lines to Worli, is set to open by June 2024, with its final phase expected to be operational shortly thereafter. The project, which boasts eight lanes of expressway, will accommodate up to 130,000 vehicles daily, reducing travel time from over two hours to just 40 minutes.

Engineering Marvels and Sustainability

One of the project’s standout features is the 3.4-kilometer twin undersea tunnel, the first of its kind in India. Constructed using advanced tunnel boring machines, this engineering marvel ensures seamless connectivity while maintaining environmental integrity. The project, developed at a cost of ₹12,721 crore, integrates elevated roads, reclaimed land, and advanced drainage systems to prevent flooding during monsoon seasons.

To address ecological concerns, the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) has undertaken extensive measures, including the transplantation of over 18,000 mangroves and continuous environmental monitoring. These efforts align with global sustainability standards, ensuring minimal impact on the marine ecosystem.

Boost to Economic and Regional Connectivity

The Coastal Road will also act as a critical link to other infrastructure projects, such as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) and the Western Express Highway, streamlining traffic flow across the city and bolstering economic activity in the region. Officials anticipate a 25% reduction in vehicular pollution, thanks to shorter travel times and reduced idling.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Commuters can look forward to world-class facilities, including dedicated cycling tracks, green landscaping along the route, and smart traffic management systems. This holistic approach ensures the Coastal Road is not just a solution to traffic woes but a model for sustainable urban development.

Optimism Among Mumbaikars

With completion imminent, the Coastal Road is generating excitement among residents and experts alike. “This project is a game-changer for Mumbai, improving quality of life and redefining urban transportation,” said an official from the MCGM Coastal Road Department.

As Mumbai prepares to unveil this transformative project, it stands as a testament to the city’s ability to blend innovation, sustainability, and progress. The Coastal Road is more than just a roadway; it’s a gateway to a more connected and efficient future for the bustling metropolis.