Mumbai– In a major boost to Mumbai- Pune connectivity, two newly constructed flyovers over the Thane Creek at Vashi have been completed, ensuring smoother traffic movement in both directions. The flyover for vehicles traveling from Mumbai to Pune was inaugurated by former Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, while the bridge from Vashi to Mumbai is set to be inaugurated soon.
From early this week, vehicles from Mumbai have started using the new bridge towards Pune, significantly reducing congestion. According to the Mankhurd and Navi Mumbai traffic departments, the ongoing traffic bottlenecks on the Vashi Creek Bridge will soon be resolved with both new flyovers becoming operational.
Traffic Woes Eased After Toll Exemption
Previously, the Atal Setu helped reduce the load on the Vashi flyover by diverting traffic towards Uran and Panvel. However, after the Maharashtra government removed toll charges, nearly 10,000 to 12,000 vehicles that earlier used Atal Setu resumed travel via the Vashi Creek Bridge, leading to frequent congestion. With the third flyover now complete, traffic is expected to flow smoothly.
Third Flyover Constructed at Rs598 Crore
The first Vashi Creek Bridge was built in 1971, followed by a second bridge in 1995. Now, a third bridge has been completed at a cost of ₹598 crore. With six lanes available on both new flyovers, the city’s traffic infrastructure has received a much-needed upgrade.
The first bridge built in 1971 has now been permanently closed to traffic, and motorists are eagerly waiting for the three-lane section from Vashi to Mumbai to open soon. Officials have confirmed that the route from Mankhurd to Vashi is now fully operational, easing congestion for Pune-bound traffic. The new flyover for Mumbai-bound vehicles is also expected to be inaugurated in the coming days.
