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India’S Road Will Be Better Than That Of Us In Next 2 Years, Says Nitin GadkariRoad Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Monday announced that the long-delayed Mumbai-Goa highway will finally be completed by June 2025. Speaking at an event, Gadkari also asserted that India’s road infrastructure will surpass that of the United States within the next two years.
“There were numerous difficulties with the Mumbai-Goa highway. But do not worry, we will complete the road 100 per cent by this June,” Gadkari assured, adding that the highway will significantly reduce travel time between Mumbai and Goa while boosting economic development in the Konkan region. Gadkari further said that in the next 18 months, India’s road infrastructure will be better than that of the United States of America.
“Infrastructure development is very important for India…I am working to accelerate the pace of highway construction in the country to 100 km per day,” he said, adding that the highways ministry will construct 25,000 km two and four-lane highways in coming years. “There is no dearth of money for the highways projects,” Gadkari said.
The pace of highway construction in the country touched a record of 37 km per day in 2020-21. The highways ministry constructed 10,237 kilometres in 2019-20, 13,435 kilometres in 2020-21, 10,457 kilometres in 2021-22, 10,331 kilometres in 2022-23 and 12,349 kilometres in 2023-24.
The Mumbai-Goa highway project has faced multiple delays over the past decade, with the most recent deadline of December 2023 also missed. Locals, lawmakers and civic organisations have consistently raised concerns about the unfinished work.
Explaining the reasons behind the long delay, Gadkari cited complex land acquisition issues, particularly legal disputes and ownership battles among family members. “There were fights among brothers, court cases and hurdles in providing compensation for land. But these matters have now been resolved and the project has gained momentum,” he said.
He admitted that both the Delhi-Jaipur and Mumbai-Goa highways had become black spots for the ministry, but emphasised that efforts are being made to change that.
Gadkari also outlined other major infrastructure plans, including work on the Delhi-Mumbai and Surat-Chennai highways. “The Delhi-Mumbai highway will link to Surat and from there, a new highway will extend all the way to Chennai via Nasik, Ahmadnagar and Solapur. This means travellers going south no longer need to pass through Mumbai or Pune,” he explained, adding that the vision of seamless travel from Kashmir to Kanyakumari is close to being realised.
Highlighting the scale of his ministry’s work, Gadkari said that 57 express highways are currently being constructed across the country with an investment of Rs 10 lakh crore.
He also teased a major overhaul in toll collection, saying a new policy will be announced within the next 15 days. “Physical toll booths will soon be a thing of the past. Once the new policy is in place, there will be no reason for anyone to complain about tolls,” he said.
(With inputs from PTI)road-bridge
Apr 15, 2025
financial express
Mumbai: Inauguration Of North Channel Bridge Marks New Era Of Connectivity Between Coastal Road And Sea LinkMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde marked a significant milestone on Sunday with the inauguration of the North Channel Bridge, connecting the Mumbai Coastal Road Project to the Worli-Bandra Sea Link. This development is expected to enhance the city’s connectivity and ease traffic flow.
During the inauguration, Deputy Chief Minister Shinde made a special announcement regarding a new green initiative for the city. “A 70-hectare park will be built here. The file for 120 acres of land at the Mahalaxmi Race Course has been opened, and the agreement has been finalized. A 300-acre world-class central park will also be developed here, which will serve as a major oxygen park to combat Mumbai’s pollution,” Shinde stated. This ambitious park project is expected to offer substantial recreational and environmental benefits to the city’s residents.
The Deputy CM also reflected on the progress made by Maharashtra during his Republic Day message. “As the country celebrates its 76th Republic Day, our state and Thane district are progressing rapidly. Our district is leading in various sectors such as agriculture, industry, services, and employment. During the recent Davos visit, an MoU worth Rs 15 lakh crore was signed, furthering the progress of Maharashtra under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Shinde added.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Fadnavis unfurled the national flag at Varsha Bungalow in Mumbai, offering his wishes on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day. “May the world’s largest democracy, which upholds sovereignty and secularism, continue to grow. Happy Republic Day to everyone,” he posted on X.
On the same day, other state leaders also celebrated the occasion. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini hoisted the national flag in Rewari, while Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami did the same in Dehradun. CM Dhami also administered the Preamble of the Constitution to attendees, emphasizing the realization of the dreams envisioned when the Constitution was framed.road-bridge
Jan 28, 2025
financial express
Mumbai: Inauguration Of North Channel Bridge Marks New Era Of Connectivity Between Coastal Road And Sea LinkMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde marked a significant milestone on Sunday with the inauguration of the North Channel Bridge, connecting the Mumbai Coastal Road Project to the Worli-Bandra Sea Link. This development is expected to enhance the city’s connectivity and ease traffic flow.
During the inauguration, Deputy Chief Minister Shinde made a special announcement regarding a new green initiative for the city. “A 70-hectare park will be built here. The file for 120 acres of land at the Mahalaxmi Race Course has been opened, and the agreement has been finalized. A 300-acre world-class central park will also be developed here, which will serve as a major oxygen park to combat Mumbai’s pollution,” Shinde stated. This ambitious park project is expected to offer substantial recreational and environmental benefits to the city’s residents.
The Deputy CM also reflected on the progress made by Maharashtra during his Republic Day message. “As the country celebrates its 76th Republic Day, our state and Thane district are progressing rapidly. Our district is leading in various sectors such as agriculture, industry, services, and employment. During the recent Davos visit, an MoU worth Rs 15 lakh crore was signed, furthering the progress of Maharashtra under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Shinde added.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Fadnavis unfurled the national flag at Varsha Bungalow in Mumbai, offering his wishes on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day. “May the world’s largest democracy, which upholds sovereignty and secularism, continue to grow. Happy Republic Day to everyone,” he posted on X.
On the same day, other state leaders also celebrated the occasion. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini hoisted the national flag in Rewari, while Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami did the same in Dehradun. CM Dhami also administered the Preamble of the Constitution to attendees, emphasizing the realization of the dreams envisioned when the Constitution was framed.road-bridge
Jan 26, 2025
financial express
Mumbai’S Uttan-Virar Sea Link: Project To Relieve Pressure On Western Express Highway, Link RoadMumbai’s traffic congestion continues to challenge daily commuters, prompting government agencies to unveil transformative infrastructure projects aimed at easing the strain. Among the most significant initiatives is the Uttan-Virar Sea Link (UVSL), a monumental 55-km-long sea bridge being developed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). This project is part of the Ring Road project, set to reshape travel across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) by 2029.
The UVSL project follows the extension of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) Mumbai Coastal Road from Worli to Bhayander, and is designed to integrate with several ongoing infrastructure projects. The goal is to ease the burden on the already congested Western Express Highway and Link Road, offering seamless connectivity across Mumbai’s extensive road network.
The alignment of the UVSL includes a 24.35 km main sea link running from Uttan to Virar, complemented by connectors totaling 30.77 km. This will link critical areas such as Uttan, Vasai, and Virar. The sea link will feature 8 lanes (4+4), with 6 lanes for the connectors (3+3), ensuring smooth traffic flow even during peak hours, reported Indian Express.
Incorporating state-of-the-art technology, the UVSL will feature navigational spans for maritime traffic, ensuring the movement of vessels remains unhindered. It will also have interchanges, ramps, and provisions for emergencies. The bridge will be equipped with an Intelligent Traffic Management System (TMS), leveraging Artificial Intelligence-powered cameras to monitor traffic and manage usage efficiently. Additionally, a 1.2 km tunnel near Arnala Fort in Virar will act as a detour.
With an estimated cost of Rs 87,400 crore, the UVSL project is one of the largest infrastructure investments in Mumbai’s history. The MMRDA plans to seek funding from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to help cover the expenses. While the project cost has risen significantly from an earlier estimate of Rs 32,865 crore in 2021, the upgraded cost is reflective of the project’s expanded scope and technological enhancements.
The UVSL will connect seamlessly to other major infrastructure projects, such as the Dahisar-Bhayander Link Road and the Mumbai-Delhi Expressway, significantly enhancing the overall road network. By linking with the Delhi-Mumbai Highway, it will also provide improved access to the surrounding regions, contributing to smoother traffic flow.
The project has already reached an important milestone, with the Detailed Project Report (DPR) peer-reviewed and submitted to the Maharashtra Government for approval. Once greenlit, the UVSL is expected to transform Mumbai’s transportation landscape, drastically improving connectivity and reducing the pressure on the city’s existing infrastructure.
Initially proposed by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), the project was later handed over to the MMRDA. The change in governance, along with the revised alignment and integration with the BMC’s coastal road project, has contributed to the rise in cost estimates. However, once completed, the UVSL is set to redefine travel efficiency and alleviate Mumbai’s growing traffic challenges.
The project remains subject to permissions from various agencies, and its successful implementation will pave the way for smoother, faster travel across Mumbai and its metropolitan region.road-bridge
Jan 21, 2025
financial express
Mumbai’S Uttan-Virar Sea Link: Project To Relieve Pressure On Western Express Highway, Link RoadMumbai’s traffic congestion continues to challenge daily commuters, prompting government agencies to unveil transformative infrastructure projects aimed at easing the strain. Among the most significant initiatives is the Uttan-Virar Sea Link (UVSL), a monumental 55-km-long sea bridge being developed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). This project is part of the Ring Road project, set to reshape travel across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) by 2029.
The UVSL project follows the extension of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) Mumbai Coastal Road from Worli to Bhayander, and is designed to integrate with several ongoing infrastructure projects. The goal is to ease the burden on the already congested Western Express Highway and Link Road, offering seamless connectivity across Mumbai’s extensive road network.
The alignment of the UVSL includes a 24.35 km main sea link running from Uttan to Virar, complemented by connectors totaling 30.77 km. This will link critical areas such as Uttan, Vasai, and Virar. The sea link will feature 8 lanes (4+4), with 6 lanes for the connectors (3+3), ensuring smooth traffic flow even during peak hours, reported Indian Express.
Incorporating state-of-the-art technology, the UVSL will feature navigational spans for maritime traffic, ensuring the movement of vessels remains unhindered. It will also have interchanges, ramps, and provisions for emergencies. The bridge will be equipped with an Intelligent Traffic Management System (TMS), leveraging Artificial Intelligence-powered cameras to monitor traffic and manage usage efficiently. Additionally, a 1.2 km tunnel near Arnala Fort in Virar will act as a detour.
With an estimated cost of Rs 87,400 crore, the UVSL project is one of the largest infrastructure investments in Mumbai’s history. The MMRDA plans to seek funding from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to help cover the expenses. While the project cost has risen significantly from an earlier estimate of Rs 32,865 crore in 2021, the upgraded cost is reflective of the project’s expanded scope and technological enhancements.
The UVSL will connect seamlessly to other major infrastructure projects, such as the Dahisar-Bhayander Link Road and the Mumbai-Delhi Expressway, significantly enhancing the overall road network. By linking with the Delhi-Mumbai Highway, it will also provide improved access to the surrounding regions, contributing to smoother traffic flow.
The project has already reached an important milestone, with the Detailed Project Report (DPR) peer-reviewed and submitted to the Maharashtra Government for approval. Once greenlit, the UVSL is expected to transform Mumbai’s transportation landscape, drastically improving connectivity and reducing the pressure on the city’s existing infrastructure.
Initially proposed by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), the project was later handed over to the MMRDA. The change in governance, along with the revised alignment and integration with the BMC’s coastal road project, has contributed to the rise in cost estimates. However, once completed, the UVSL is set to redefine travel efficiency and alleviate Mumbai’s growing traffic challenges.
The project remains subject to permissions from various agencies, and its successful implementation will pave the way for smoother, faster travel across Mumbai and its metropolitan region.road-bridge
Jan 20, 2025
financial express
Thane’S Highway Upgrade: A Solution For Bhiwandi’S Congested Roads?Thane’s traffic woes may soon be alleviated with the ongoing expansion of the Vadpe-Majiwada stretch of the Old Mumbai-Nashik Highway. The project aims to revamp this 23.8 km stretch into a modern eight-lane highway, complete with two-lane service roads on either side, and features ten strategically placed underpasses to ease congestion, reported Indian Express.
According to the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), these underpasses are a critical part of the plan to tackle the persistent traffic snarls caused by heavy commercial vehicles from Bhiwandi’s sprawling warehouses. With goods trucks clogging the highway daily, commuters face severe delays and frustration.
The ten underpasses, set for completion by May, will be located at key points including Walshin, Sonale, Kharegaon, Yewali Flyover, Saravali, Pimplas, Ovali, Mankoli Motagaon, Dive Gaon near the Petrol Pump, and Dive. These new underpasses, spanning 8 km, are expected to greatly improve traffic flow and reduce the gridlock that often chokes this vital stretch of road.
In addition to the underpasses, the project also includes the construction of major bridges and flyovers, including the Kasheli Creek Bridge (817.5 meters), Kalwa Creek Bridge (199 meters), Vadpe Flyover (320 meters), and a Railway Bridge (84.15 meters).
This upgrade is complemented by the nearing completion of the Samruddhi Mahamarg expressway, which will connect Igatpuri to Thane. The final 76-km stretch of this 701-km project will include a 4.2-km spur linking to the under-construction Mumbai-Vadodara Expressway. Set to finish by the end of January, this spur will drastically reduce travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur.
The Samruddhi Mahamarg’s engineering marvel includes a challenging six-story-high slope, where controlled blasting has been used to level the terrain. With 98% of the work complete, this connection will further enhance connectivity and reduce traffic on the Old Mumbai-Nashik Highway.
Both the Samruddhi Mahamarg and the Vadpe-Majiwada highway expansion are expected to not only ease congestion but also boost economic activity. The high-speed design and planned amenities are set to improve commuter convenience while driving economic growth along the corridor. MSRDC officials believe these projects will play a pivotal role in the region’s transportation and economic future.road-bridge
Jan 15, 2025
financial express
Thane’S Highway Upgrade: A Solution For Bhiwandi’S Congested Roads?Thane’s traffic woes may soon be alleviated with the ongoing expansion of the Vadpe-Majiwada stretch of the Old Mumbai-Nashik Highway. The project aims to revamp this 23.8 km stretch into a modern eight-lane highway, complete with two-lane service roads on either side, and features ten strategically placed underpasses to ease congestion, reported Indian Express.
According to the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), these underpasses are a critical part of the plan to tackle the persistent traffic snarls caused by heavy commercial vehicles from Bhiwandi’s sprawling warehouses. With goods trucks clogging the highway daily, commuters face severe delays and frustration.
The ten underpasses, set for completion by May, will be located at key points including Walshin, Sonale, Kharegaon, Yewali Flyover, Saravali, Pimplas, Ovali, Mankoli Motagaon, Dive Gaon near the Petrol Pump, and Dive. These new underpasses, spanning 8 km, are expected to greatly improve traffic flow and reduce the gridlock that often chokes this vital stretch of road.
In addition to the underpasses, the project also includes the construction of major bridges and flyovers, including the Kasheli Creek Bridge (817.5 meters), Kalwa Creek Bridge (199 meters), Vadpe Flyover (320 meters), and a Railway Bridge (84.15 meters).
This upgrade is complemented by the nearing completion of the Samruddhi Mahamarg expressway, which will connect Igatpuri to Thane. The final 76-km stretch of this 701-km project will include a 4.2-km spur linking to the under-construction Mumbai-Vadodara Expressway. Set to finish by the end of January, this spur will drastically reduce travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur.
The Samruddhi Mahamarg’s engineering marvel includes a challenging six-story-high slope, where controlled blasting has been used to level the terrain. With 98% of the work complete, this connection will further enhance connectivity and reduce traffic on the Old Mumbai-Nashik Highway.
Both the Samruddhi Mahamarg and the Vadpe-Majiwada highway expansion are expected to not only ease congestion but also boost economic activity. The high-speed design and planned amenities are set to improve commuter convenience while driving economic growth along the corridor. MSRDC officials believe these projects will play a pivotal role in the region’s transportation and economic future.road-bridge
Jan 15, 2025
financial express
Atal Setu Misses Projections! India’S Longest Sea Bridge Sees Lower Traffic Than Expected In First Year Of OperationAtal Setu, India’s longest sea bridge, inaugurated a year ago, has recorded an average daily traffic of 22,689 vehicles, falling short of initial projections that expected more than 56,000 vehicles daily. The bridge, which spans nearly 22 kilometers and connects Sewri in Mumbai to Chirle in Navi Mumbai, was officially opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 12, 2024, marking the completion of a significant infrastructure project in Maharashtra.
Constructed at a cost of approximately Rs 17,840 crore, the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu is not only the longest bridge in India but also the longest sea bridge in the country.
In a release on Monday, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) described Atal Setu (formerly known as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link or MTHL) as “emerging as a symbol of modern infrastructure, safety, and efficiency.” The bridge, which crosses over the Thane creek, has facilitated the movement of 83,06,009 vehicles in the past year, significantly improving the transit between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, according to the state-run agency.
According to an MMRDA report, the bridge was initially projected to handle an average of 57,525 vehicles daily by 2021, with the estimate rising to 88,550 by 2031. However, since its inauguration, the bridge has averaged 22,689 vehicles daily. Its highest single-day traffic count reached 61,807 on January 14, 2024, shortly after its opening.
Over the past year, the Atal Setu has seen a variety of vehicles using the bridge, including 77,28,149 cars, 99,660 mini buses and LCVs, 1,17,604 buses, 1,99,636 three-axle vehicles, 1,60,061 four to six-axle vehicles, and 899 over-dimensional vehicles, the MMRDA reported.
“In just one year, it has transformed the commuting experience for over eight million vehicles, contributing significantly to the economic and social development of the region,” Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said in the release.
The bridge’s traffic management and emergency response systems, including the Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS), Fire-Rescue Vehicles (FRVs), maintenance teams, and patrolling units, have ensured smooth operations and quick incident handling, the release added. “Three specialised teams work 24/7 to monitor traffic, provide medical aid (in case of injuries), and clear disruptions, minimising hazards and maintaining high safety standards,” it noted.
This six-lane bridge, with about 16.5 km over the sea and 5.5 km on land, is also designed to provide faster connectivity between the Mumbai International Airport and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, which is expected to be operational later this year. It has significantly reduced travel time to destinations like Pune, Goa, and South India, while also improving connectivity between Mumbai Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port.road-bridge
Jan 14, 2025
financial express
Atal Setu Misses Projections! India’S Longest Sea Bridge Sees Lower Traffic Than Expected In First Year Of OperationAtal Setu, India’s longest sea bridge, inaugurated a year ago, has recorded an average daily traffic of 22,689 vehicles, falling short of initial projections that expected more than 56,000 vehicles daily. The bridge, which spans nearly 22 kilometers and connects Sewri in Mumbai to Chirle in Navi Mumbai, was officially opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 12, 2024, marking the completion of a significant infrastructure project in Maharashtra.
Constructed at a cost of approximately Rs 17,840 crore, the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu is not only the longest bridge in India but also the longest sea bridge in the country.
In a release on Monday, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) described Atal Setu (formerly known as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link or MTHL) as “emerging as a symbol of modern infrastructure, safety, and efficiency.” The bridge, which crosses over the Thane creek, has facilitated the movement of 83,06,009 vehicles in the past year, significantly improving the transit between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, according to the state-run agency.
According to an MMRDA report, the bridge was initially projected to handle an average of 57,525 vehicles daily by 2021, with the estimate rising to 88,550 by 2031. However, since its inauguration, the bridge has averaged 22,689 vehicles daily. Its highest single-day traffic count reached 61,807 on January 14, 2024, shortly after its opening.
Over the past year, the Atal Setu has seen a variety of vehicles using the bridge, including 77,28,149 cars, 99,660 mini buses and LCVs, 1,17,604 buses, 1,99,636 three-axle vehicles, 1,60,061 four to six-axle vehicles, and 899 over-dimensional vehicles, the MMRDA reported.
“In just one year, it has transformed the commuting experience for over eight million vehicles, contributing significantly to the economic and social development of the region,” Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said in the release.
The bridge’s traffic management and emergency response systems, including the Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS), Fire-Rescue Vehicles (FRVs), maintenance teams, and patrolling units, have ensured smooth operations and quick incident handling, the release added. “Three specialised teams work 24/7 to monitor traffic, provide medical aid (in case of injuries), and clear disruptions, minimising hazards and maintaining high safety standards,” it noted.
This six-lane bridge, with about 16.5 km over the sea and 5.5 km on land, is also designed to provide faster connectivity between the Mumbai International Airport and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, which is expected to be operational later this year. It has significantly reduced travel time to destinations like Pune, Goa, and South India, while also improving connectivity between Mumbai Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port.road-bridge
Jan 14, 2025
financial express
Maha Kumbh: Cm Yogi Adityanath Flags Off 100 New Buses To Improve Transport Facilities For DevoteesChief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched 100 new buses to enhance transportation facilities for the devotees attending the Maha Kumbh 2025 on the second day of his visit to Prayagraj. These consisted of special shuttle buses from the Uttar Pradesh Transport Corporation and electric buses named ‘Atal Seva’. They were flagged off at a function held in the parade area.
This initiative is part of efforts to improve transport arrangements for the millions of devotees expected at the event. CM Yogi, accompanied by UP ministers Daya Shankar Singh, Nand Gopal Nandi, and Swatantra Dev Singh, assured that a smooth experience for the devotees coming for the religious gathering would be ensured.
During the visit, the Chief Minister also took time to appreciate the aesthetic beauty of the airport route. On his return to the airport, CM Yogi stepped out of his vehicle to walk along the road, admiring the greenery and landscaping. His gesture was followed by accompanying ministers and officials, who also disembarked and joined him in the impromptu inspection.
CM Yogi inaugurated ‘Maa Ki Rasoi,’ a special kitchen run by Nandi Seva Sansthan at Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital in Prayagraj earlier in the day. The chief minister lauded the organization for maintaining a clean kitchen and serving quality food to the poor. On the occasion of inauguration, he served the people and inspected the arrangements inside the kitchen.
This year, over 45 crore devotees are likely to attend the Maha Kumbh, which is held every 12 years. The confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers at the Sangam is the venue where devotees would take holy dips. The last day of Maha Kumbh will be on February 26, but the main Shahi Snan is scheduled on January 14, on Makar Sankranti, on January 29 on Mauni Amavasya, and on February 3 on Basant Panchami.
With inputs from ANI.road-bridge
Jan 10, 2025