Mumbai’s ambitious Coastal Road Project has reached a significant milestone, with the construction of the second twin tunnel set to pass underneath a river and mangroves. This key infrastructure development is part of Phase 2 of the Coastal Road, which aims to provide a faster and more seamless commute between the southern and northern parts of the city. The twin tunnels, a major engineering feat, are designed to navigate through sensitive ecological zones, including mangrove forests and riverbeds, without causing significant environmental damage.
The twin tunnels, stretching approximately 2.07 kilometers, will pass beneath the Mithi River and the adjoining mangrove regions in the city’s suburban area. The Coastal Road Project is not only a crucial element in Mumbai’s long-term urban planning but also a vital transportation link aimed at reducing congestion on the city's western coastline. The completion of these tunnels is expected to drastically reduce travel time for motorists while offering a more direct route compared to existing roads.
Despite the complex environmental and technical challenges posed by tunneling beneath such sensitive areas, authorities have ensured that advanced tunneling technologies and strict environmental safeguards are being implemented. The tunneling will use a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) equipped with the latest technology to minimize impact on the surrounding ecology. This includes measures to preserve the mangrove ecosystems, protect water bodies, and avoid any risk of flooding.
The Coastal Road, spanning over 29.2 kilometers, is expected to alleviate the burden on Mumbai’s existing road network, particularly the Western Express Highway. Once completed, this road is set to enhance connectivity from Marine Drive in the south to Kandivali in the north. Besides improving daily commutes, the Coastal Road Project is also expected to contribute to the city’s overall economic development, reducing travel costs, saving fuel, and supporting growth in peripheral regions.
This phase, along with the development of the twin tunnels, underscores the city's commitment to modernizing its infrastructure while balancing ecological concerns.
