Mumbai’s coastal infrastructure expansion has entered a new phase of citizen engagement as residents from the Breach Candy and Nepean Sea Road areas have renewed their plea for an additional exit point from the Mumbai Coastal Road. Citizens’ groups are pressing the civic authorities to integrate a southbound exit at Nepean Sea Road to ease local congestion and improve direct connectivity to the newly developed promenade and green spaces.
In a fresh representation submitted on July 10, local forums have proposed a shared-use solution to an existing land parcel owned by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC). The plan advocates the inclusion of a single-lane vehicular exit alongside a pedestrian pathway, offering improved accessibility for residents of Malabar Hill, Walkeshwar, and adjoining neighbourhoods. The residents argue that this could reduce travel time by up to 25 minutes and significantly decongest Bhulabhai Desai Road. The citizen groups have also pointed out that during the coastal road construction phase, the same plot of MSRDC land was used for logistical movement. Residents now believe the precedent strengthens their case for post-construction access via the same route. The proposed exit would also help distribute public usage more evenly across the coastal road corridor, a move that is consistent with inclusive and decentralised urban development principles.
An official from the civic body confirmed that the proposed land in question does fall under MSRDC ownership, and previous requests for access had been declined by the agency. However, no final decision has been communicated yet in the current round of petitions. Stakeholders argue that even a minor reallocation of land would deliver a major impact in terms of mobility and liveability. Some differences have emerged between local resident groups, with one forum stating that they were unaware of a parallel request being made by another. Despite the lack of coordination, both groups appear aligned in their demand for improved access and equitable use of public infrastructure.
The appeal also highlights an ongoing online petition which has garnered over 3,000 signatures in support of the proposed exit. Residents argue that traffic bottlenecks near Mukesh Chowk signal continue to burden daily commutes, and an additional exit would not only serve practical needs but also reinforce the civic purpose of large-scale infrastructure. The city’s civic body has yet to announce a formal stance on the proposal. However, as Mumbai increasingly invests in sustainable and integrated transport corridors, resident voices advocating for inclusive design could serve as a critical lever in reshaping access strategies for mega urban projects.
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