BMC’s Strategic Plan to Boost Safety on the Mumbai Coastal Road
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is taking proactive steps to enhance safety on the Mumbai Coastal Road, which stretches over 10.58 km from Marine Drive’s Princess Street Flyover to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. As part of these efforts, the civic body is planning the construction of two fire stations along the reclaimed land, ensuring that emergency services can quickly reach areas with high traffic and potential fire risks. The coastal road, a flagship infrastructure project aimed at easing traffic congestion, has already dramatically reduced travel time between South Mumbai and the western suburbs. The route, which cuts down travel time from 45-50 minutes to just 10-12 minutes, is a vital artery for city traffic. However, with the increased speed and density of vehicles, safety concerns have escalated, prompting the BMC to act swiftly.
One of the key elements of the safety plan is the creation of fire stations. These will be strategically located on the 90 hectares of reclaimed land, which will also serve as spaces for parks and parking. The Mumbai Fire Brigade has advocated for the construction of these stations, ensuring quick access to key emergency points along the road. The locations for these fire stations are still under consideration, pending necessary approvals. Given the growing number of fire-related incidents along the coastal road, including vehicles catching fire, having fire stations in close proximity would significantly reduce response times, offering immediate relief during emergencies. To address growing concerns about noise pollution and dangerous driving along the coastal stretch, the BMC is also preparing to appoint a maintenance contractor. This contractor’s role will be crucial in deploying patrolling and towing vans to monitor speeding vehicles, particularly two-wheelers and food delivery bikes, which have been reportedly using the road for high-speed races. The contractor will also manage the installation of speed detection cameras, road signage, and dividers to curb reckless driving.
In addition, BMC plans to install 70 speed detection cameras along the coastal road, a move that is expected to enhance traffic enforcement and discourage overspeeding. While the plan has not yet received final approval, work on this system is anticipated to begin by May 2025, with the cameras expected to go live shortly thereafter. With the entire stretch of the Coastal Road set to open on 26 January 2025, these measures are aimed at ensuring a safer, more efficient travel experience for Mumbai’s commuters. The BMC’s swift response to growing concerns about safety highlights the increasing emphasis on infrastructure security as the city continues to modernise and expand its road networks.
