The crucial road connection linking Mumbai to Navi Mumbai and the upcoming international airport is nearing completion but remains on hold due to pending environmental clearances. The Atal Setu–Coastal Road connector, designed to streamline travel between the two cities and reduce congestion along existing routes, has been delayed over uncertainties regarding mangrove impacts along the proposed alignment.
While construction of the Mumbai–Navi Mumbai Coastal Road has largely concluded, the final link through the mangrove area remains unresolved. Urban planners and transport analysts note that this corridor is expected to cut travel time significantly, enhancing connectivity for passengers and freight movement in the metropolitan region. However, environmental considerations have emerged as a critical factor, highlighting the complex interplay between infrastructure expansion and ecological conservation in coastal urban zones. The stalling of the project is not due to engineering challenges but hinges on precise environmental assessments. The affected area contains mangrove patches, which serve as natural buffers against coastal erosion, flood surges, and support biodiversity. Authorities have yet to determine the exact number of mangrove trees impacted, delaying the issuance of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance. A senior official involved in urban infrastructure projects explained that even minor discrepancies in mangrove data can result in rejection or postponement of approvals, underlining the sensitivity of regulatory compliance in environmentally protected zones.
Environmental experts stress that mangroves are essential for climate-resilient urban planning. “Coastal infrastructure projects must incorporate mangrove conservation measures to maintain ecosystem services and protect urban populations from climate risks,” said an independent environmental consultant. The Atal Setu–Coastal Road connector illustrates the challenge of balancing rapid urban mobility with ecosystem preservation, particularly in high-density metropolitan regions such as Mumbai. Industry observers indicate that the delay may affect real estate and commercial developments in Navi Mumbai, which are heavily reliant on improved access from the city. Enhanced connectivity is expected to stimulate economic activity, reduce logistics costs, and improve commuter convenience, reinforcing the strategic significance of the connector. Meanwhile, municipal and state agencies are reviewing potential mitigation measures, including mangrove transplantation or alignment modifications, to satisfy CRZ requirements without compromising the functionality of the link.
Urban development specialists suggest that adopting a people-first and ecologically sensitive approach could serve as a model for future coastal projects in India. Integrating environmental safeguards into urban transport planning ensures long-term resilience against flooding, erosion, and biodiversity loss, while maintaining the pace of infrastructural growth. Resolution of the mangrove assessment is now pivotal to unlocking the region’s transport potential and enabling direct road access between Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and the upcoming international airport.
Atal Setu Coastal Link to Mumbai Airport Nears Completion Awaiting Approval
