Mumbai: With major infrastructure projects like the Goregaon-Mulund Link Road (GMLR), Madh-Versova bridge, and the reconstruction of several other bridges currently underway, the burden on the already understaffed BMC's Bridges Department has increased.
BMC to Deploy 200 Engineers for VDLR Project Supervision
To address this, the BMC has proposed the deployment of nearly 200 additional officers to supervise Versova-Dahisar Link Road (VDLR) project. The proposal is currently awaiting administrative approval from Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani.
Phase II of Coastal Road Project Accelerated Under State Directive
Following state government directives, the BMC has accelerated Phase II of the Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP). The 20-km Versova-Dahisar Link Road (VDLR), costing Rs 16,621 crore, aims to ease traffic congestion.
Dahisar-Bhayandar Elevated Road Also Greenlit at ₹3,304 Crore
Additionally, a 5.6-km, 45m-wide elevated road from Dahisar to Bhayandar will be built at Rs 3,304 crore. Work begins in August 2025 and is expected to finish by December 2028.
With environmental clearance secured last year, civil work starts next month. The project will cut travel time from 90–120 minutes to 15–20 minutes and reduce carbon emissions by 55% through fuel savings.
Dedicated Multi-Department Team to Ensure Efficient Execution
“To ensure efficient implementation of MCRP Phase II, engineers from the roads, sewerage, and water supply departments will be assigned to the project. They will be responsible for contractor supervision, daily progress tracking, and handling technical matters. This personnel pool will also support other upcoming infrastructure projects,” said a senior civic official.
The BMC had created a dedicated department for the construction and maintenance of the 10.58 km Phase I of the MCRP, stretching from Marine Drive to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.
However, officials currently working on Phase I will continue in their roles, as the department is also responsible for its upkeep and pending ancillary works, such as developing open spaces and walkways.
Phase II to Feature Tunnels, Cable-Stayed Bridge, and Interchanges
Phase II of the MCRP will feature underground tunnels, a cable-stayed bridge, and vehicular interchanges to enhance north-south connectivity. Civil work is set to begin in the first week of September, including machinery mobilisation and casting yard setup.
Tunnel boring to link Mindspace (Malad) and Charkop will start next year, with the tunnel boring machine expected to arrive early next year. The project will also connect with the GMLR, improving east-west connectivity.
