In a bid to improve connectivity of the eastern suburbs with Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) plans to develop an access-controlled highway connecting these areas at an estimate cost of Rs 10,833 crore.
During the 158th meeting of the authority, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde granted an approval for the preliminary alignment report of an access-controlled highway connecting Kalyan, Dombivli, Ulhasnagar, Ambernath, and Badlapur with Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.
“The project, estimated at Rs 10,833 crore, aims to cut travel time between these cities and Mumbai to 60 minutes and Navi Mumbai to 30 minutes,” MMRDA said in a statement.
The highway will provide direct connectivity to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport and NAINA, while also reducing congestion in Thane and nearby highways.
The project will feature an 8-lane divided carriageway with service lanes, ensuring a design speed of 80 km/h. Major interchanges are proposed with key roadways, including the Mumbai-Vadodara Spur, Katai-Badlapur and the Kalyan Ring Road.
As a part of the broader vision to develop the Mumbai Metropolitan Region into a global economic hub, the Authority gave administrative approval for the formation of a dedicated “Project Implementation Unit” and a “Business Development Cell” to execute the region’s Economic Master Plan. It has also granted initial budgetary approval of up to Rs 100 crore for 2024-25 to kick-start the execution of this master plan.
“MMRDA’s initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and promoting economic growth in the region. The proposed developments, especially those related to transport and tourism, will bolster Mumbai’s standing as a dynamic global city and economic powerhouse,” MMRDA said in a statement.
Speaking at the occasion, Shinde noted that the MMR holds a critical position in India’s economic landscape. “Through strategic planning and collaborative efforts with global entities such as the World Economic Forum, we will ensure that Mumbai continues to thrive as a global city. This Economic Master Plan will guide us towards sustainable development, creating opportunities for businesses and residents alike. Also, this revised development plan reflects a careful balance between modernisation, environmental conservation, and the socio-economic needs of the local population,” he added.
The meeting also focused on vital urban projects and the revision of development plans for strategic zones such as Backbay Reclamation in south Mumbai. The proposal includes expansion of the new legislative building and the introduction of new link roads to improve connectivity between Netaji Subhashchandra Marg and Jagannath Bhosle Marg.
Additionally, a dedicated marina for tourism is proposed, which will include ports for small boats and yachts to boost tourism in the area. The Authority also granted initial budgetary approvals of up to Rs 100 crore for 2024-25 to kick-start the execution of this master plan.
Dr Sanjay Mukherjee, IAS, Metropolitan Commissioner of MMRDA, stated that the MMRDA is focused on creating a balanced approach to growth that integrates infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and the well-being of local communities.
“The revised development plans and major connectivity projects, such as the Backbay Reclamation and the access-controlled highway, are critical to shaping the future of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Our vision is to enhance connectivity, promote economic growth, and ensure that every project respects the natural and social fabric of the region,” Mukherjee added.
