Experts believe this will reduce traffic congestion in Mumbai’s western suburbs and provide daily relief to millions of commuters.
Mumbai: Traveling from Nariman Point to Mira-Bhayandar currently takes over one and a half hours due to traffic congestion, potholes, and other obstacles. However, this journey could soon be cut down to just half an hour. The key breakthrough came when the Central Salt Department transferred its land to the state government, clearing a major hurdle for the development of the Dahisar-Bhayandar highway.
Once completed, the highway will allow commuters to travel from Nariman Point to Mira-Bhayandar via the Coastal Road at high speed. According to Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, the Dahisar-Bhayandar highway will be ready within three years. The Central Salt Department has approved the transfer of 53.17 acres of land along the 60-meter-wide Dahisar-Bhayandar route to the Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation, paving the way for the project.
Coastal Road to Extend up to Uttan
The Coastal Road, being constructed through the Mumbai Municipal Corporation, will extend up to Uttan. From there, the 60-meter-wide Dahisar-Bhayandar road will reach Subhash Chandra Bose Ground on Mira Road, eventually connecting to the twin cities of Vasai-Virar. The tender for this project has already been issued, and L&T has been awarded the contract. The project is expected to be completed in three years at an estimated cost of Rs. 3,000 crore, funded by the Mumbai Municipal Corporation.
Minister Sarnaik noted that the land transfer has cleared the way for constructing the Dahisar-Bhayandar road and its extension toward Vasai-Virar.
Coastal Road Will Not Affect Marine Life
Initially, the Coastal Road was planned to pass along the coastline from Uttan to Virar. However, concerns were raised by local fishermen, fearing it could impact fishing and their livelihoods. Minister Sarnaik conveyed these concerns to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, who approved a revised route. The Coastal Road will now follow a land-based path from Uttan to Dahisar and then via Mira-Bhayandar to Vasai-Virar, avoiding the coastline and protecting the marine ecosystem.
Boost Connectivity for Mumbai Suburbs
Upon completion, this project will not only improve access to Mira-Bhayandar but also directly connect Vasai-Virar via the coastal route. Experts believe this will reduce traffic congestion in Mumbai’s western suburbs and provide daily relief to millions of commuters. The improved connectivity is also expected to strengthen Mira-Bhayandar’s identity as a major suburban hub.
