The Mumbai Coastal Road Project, inaugurated on March 11, is officially named ‘Dharmveer Swarajya Rakshak Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Marg’. With a budget of 12,721 crores, it covers a distance of 10.58 kilometers. The initial phase, covering 9.5 kilometers, links Princess Flyover Road to the Worli Sea Link, through India’s first undersea twin tunnels. According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, 16,331 vehicles used the newly opened four-lane southbound carriageway within 12 hours.
So we’ve rounded up 8 intriguing facts about the project here!
Officially named ‘Dharmveer Swarajya Rakshak Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Marg’
The Mumbai Coastal Road Project, officially known as ‘Dharmveer Swarajya Rakshak Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Marg’ costing 12,721 crores, spans 10.58 kilometres. The initial phase, covering 9.5 kilometres, connects the Princess Flyover Road to the Worli Sea Link, completing the southern section of the route. This marks a significant milestone in enhancing coastal connectivity.
More than 16,000 vehicles on 1st day
According to the official data provided by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, 16,331 vehicles accessed the four-lane southbound road of the corridor, within 12 hours of its opening. Further, peak traffic was reported between 3 pm and 4 pm, with almost 1,941 vehicles, accessing Mumbai Coastal Road.
India’s first undersea twin tunnels
A standout feature of the Mumbai Coastal Road project is the incorporation of undersea twin tunnels, stretching 2.07 kilometres beneath the Arabian Sea. This groundbreaking initiative represents a pioneering effort in India’s infrastructure development. It underscores Mumbai’s ongoing urban transformation. Additionally, it further solidifies its position as a city at the forefront of modernisation.
The lane configuration
The road features a total of 8 vehicular lanes, split into 4 lanes each way (4×4), providing ample space for smooth traffic flow. Within the tunnel, 6 lanes are arranged in a 3×3 configuration, optimising space utilisation. During the initial phase, 4 lanes are operational, with 3 lanes operational inside the tunnel, ensuring efficient transportation.
Speed limit & time optimisation
Linking Marine Drive and Worli, the project aims to slash travel time from 50 to approximately 10 minutes. Speed limits are set at:
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80 km/h on the road
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60 km/h in the tunnel
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40 km/h at the interchange and entry/exit points
Enhanced connectivity
In efforts to enhance connectivity, the BMC has integrated 10 bus bays and established 4 underground parking facilities. Additionally, 20 pedestrian underpasses have been constructed. These initiatives are geared towards improving transportation and pedestrian access throughout the area, aiming to create a more seamless and accessible urban environment for everyone.
Reduced fuel consumption
The southbound carriageway of the coastal road, linking Worli to Marine Drive, is forecasted to save nearly USD 100 million annually in carbon emissions through reduced fuel consumption. This anticipated reduction in emissions is a welcome development, particularly in light of Mumbai’s elevated pollution levels. This signifies a positive step towards environmental sustainability in the bustling metropolis.
Phase two expansion
The Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP) connects Versova to Dahisar and is split into six packages (A-F).
Phase two covers a 4.5 km section from Versova to Bangur Nagar (Goregaon) for Package A, a 1.66 km stretch from Bangur Nagar to Mindspace (Malad) for Package B, and two 3.66 km carriageways connecting Mindspace to Charkop (Kandivali) for Packages C and D.
Toll-free status
In a significant move, the government has declared toll-free status for the entirety of the first phase of the project. This decision aims to alleviate financial burdens on commuters and encourage usage of the newly constructed infrastructure, ensuring seamless access and facilitating smoother transportation for all.
