Thane has initiated construction on the Elevated Eastern Freeway Extension, a 13.9-kilometre, six-lane corridor designed to cut travel time between Thane and South Mumbai to approximately 25–30 minutes. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is leading the project, which also aims to alleviate congestion on the heavily trafficked Eastern Express Highway, enhancing commuter efficiency while reducing vehicle emissions.
The elevated link will stretch from Anand Nagar in Thane to Chheda Nagar in Ghatkopar, incorporating major access points including Mulund, Airoli, JVLR, Vikhroli, Kanjurmarg, Mankhurd, and Ghatkopar. In Thane, the route will integrate with the Anand Nagar–Saket Elevated Road near Mulund Octroi Naka, providing a seamless connection to the Samruddhi Expressway. An official highlighted that this alignment will allow uninterrupted traffic flow and reduce bottlenecks in critical urban corridors.
Sustainability and environmental preservation have been central to the project. The design modifications at Vikhroli and Ghatkopar have safeguarded 127 mature Pink Trumpet trees, and an additional 4,175 trees will be planted along the route. Experts note that such green integration can improve air quality and urban resilience, aligning with Thane’s commitment to a zero-carbon, inclusive cityscape.The freeway incorporates innovative engineering solutions, including 2.5-metre monopiles supporting a single-pier system with spans up to 40 metres. The deck consists of 25-metre single segments, while ramps at Mulund Check Naka, Airoli Junction, and Vikhroli Junction enhance accessibility. A six-lane toll plaza near Navghar Flyover will manage bi-directional traffic efficiently.
Construction is progressing with survey, soil checks, and utility tracking completed, while work on test piles and pier casting is underway. An MMRDA engineer noted that the careful sequencing ensures structural integrity and timely delivery. Analysts expect that the corridor will not only reduce commute times but also encourage economic activity along its alignment, benefitting local businesses and property development.As Indian cities grapple with traffic congestion and urban pollution, projects like the Thane Elevated Eastern Freeway exemplify a pragmatic approach to sustainable infrastructure, balancing speed, capacity, and environmental stewardship. If executed on schedule, the corridor could become a model for urban mobility and low-carbon development in other metropolitan regions.
Thane Elevated Eastern Freeway Begins 13.9km Six Lanes 25-Minute Commute
