The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, which is engaged in long-term planning, financing and implementing strategic infrastructure projects, is undertaking a slew of new projects in and around Greater Mumbai.
To begin with, MMRDA recently invited tenders to widen and strengthen NH-4 and SH-40 at various key spots such as Sheel Phata, Palaspe Phata, Takka Colony, Kalamboli Junction and Khanda Colony on the outskirts of the city. A four-lane flyover will also be constructed on SH-40 at L&T Junction under the project.
“We have invited tenders for widening and strengthening of NH-4 in two phases. The first phase is between Takka Colony and Palaspe Phata; while the second phase is between Kalamboli Junction and Khanda Colony. MMRDA will spend Rs. 54 crore for the 3.6-km long six-lane road,” Dilip Kawathkar, Joint Project Director (PR), MMRDA, said. The existing road is without a divider and creates bottlenecks at various stretches.
MMRDA has already constructed a flyover near Panvel ST Depot, which has reduced traffic congestion on this stretch. “The new project, which is to be completed in a year’s time, will further reduce the traffic snarls and save precious fuel and time for the commuters,” Kawathkar added.
The authority has also invited tenders to construct the proposed four-lane flyover at L&T Junction on Sheel Phata-Mahape Road on SH-40. The 450-metre flyover will have two lanes each for up and down traffic. MMRDA will also widen and strengthen the 6.9-km six-lane stretch of Sheel Phata-Mahape Road. This project is estimated to cost Rs. 56 crore and is scheduled to be completed in 18 months.
Seven roads in Oshiwara
MMRDA is constructing seven roads along with other infrastructure in Oshiwara adjoining the western suburb of Andheri. Under this project, the authority will develop roads, storm water drainage, sewage disposal system and construct new water connections.
“Western Railway is constructing a railway station, Oshiwara, between Jogeshwari and Goregaon. Once it becomes operational, this region will become a new residential and commercial hub. As SPA for the region, MMRDA is committed to develop infrastructure in this region before the station begins operations,” Kawathkar stated.
In all, MMRDA will construct seven roads totalling 3,520 meters along with sewage systems, roadside drains, water mains and culverts. MMRDA has set aside Rs. 62 crore for the work, out of which work for Rs. 37 crore has already started.
Apart from these two projects, MMRDA has completed the tendering process for constructing a 1,266-metre long creek bridge between Mankoli and Motagaon on Ulhas creek. The construction of this six-lane bridge is expected to start soon and will be completed within three years. The bridge will connect NH-3 with the Kalyan-Dombivali Municipal Corporation area and also provide vital connectivity between NH-3 and Kalyan bypass. The estimated cost of this project is Rs. 245 crore.
MMRDA is also planning to build a railway ticket counter and a bus stop near the Vitawa-Thane skywalk with escalators for senior citizens. The groundbreaking ceremony for the skywalk was held recently.
“The state government will ensure timely completion of the proposed skywalk and we will provide any additional finance for the project, if required,” Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Urban Development Uday Samant said.
However, with the proposed rupees 23.25-crore skywalk the commuters will reach the station – without risking their life n’ limb – within only five minutes. Once completed, the skywalk will benefit more than 25,000 commuters daily.
The construction of the Rs. 23.25-crore skywalk will begin after securing the necessary permissions from the Forest Department, CRZ, Central Railway etc.
