On September 12, Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) commenced its inaugural bus services over the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), commonly referred to as the Atal Setu bridge. This marks a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity across the city, with two new routes, 116 and 117, now operational. The new routes are both serviced by air-conditioned buses, aimed at providing a comfortable journey for commuters.
Route 116 starts from the Nerul bus depot, covering key areas including Ulwe and Kharkopar before crossing the Atal Setu bridge and concluding at Mantralay. In contrast, Route 117 begins at Sector 35, Kharghar, passing through the Panvel ST stand, Karanjade Phata, and Ghavan Toll Naka before reaching Mantralay via the Atal Setu bridge. According to an NMMT official, the introduction of these routes addresses the consistent demand from residents for improved transport links via the Atal Setu bridge. “These routes cover major nodes of the city, facilitating better accessibility for commuters,” the official stated.
Both routes are expected to have a travel duration of approximately 100 minutes. Services will be available on weekdays, with Route 116 departing from the Nerul Bus Depot at 7:55 AM and Route 117 starting its journey at 7:40 AM. Ticket prices are set at ₹230 for Route 116 and ₹270 for Route 117, reflecting the extended distance and convenience provided by these new services. The launch of these services represents a significant enhancement in Navi Mumbai’s public transport infrastructure, aligning with the city’s growth and the increasing demand for efficient travel options. By integrating the Atal Setu bridge into its route network, NMMT is not only improving connectivity but also supporting the city’s broader transportation objectives.