Since its inauguration, the Coastal Road has witnessed a stabilisation in traffic flow following an initial surge in joyrides. With an average of 20,500 vehicles per day traversing the route, the thoroughfare has become a vital artery for commuters, particularly during peak hours.
Initially, the Coastal Road experienced a surge in joyrides during its first week of operation. However, this trend has since subsided, with the number of vehicles traversing the route remaining consistent at approximately 20,000 to 21,000 vehicles daily. Notably, traffic patterns indicate a peak between 3 pm and 4 pm, diverging from the traditional morning rush hour peaks observed in other parts of the city. The data reveals a significant uptick in vehicle usage since the partial opening of the Coastal Road on March 12. Over the span of just a few days, the number of motorists utilising the route increased by 40%, highlighting the growing popularity and utility of the new sea route. Interestingly, the highest traffic counts were recorded during midday hours, underscoring the evolving traffic dynamics in the region.
Throughout the week, traffic volumes remained robust, with an average of approximately 21,000 vehicles per day during peak hours. Notably, mornings witnessed the highest traffic density, with an average of 6,600 vehicles traversing the Coastal Road between 9 am and 12 pm, reflecting the increasing reliance on the route for daily commute needs. To accommodate commuter demand, specific timeframes have been designated for road access, ensuring optimal traffic management and efficiency. The lanes from Worli to Marine Lines are accessible between 8 am and 5 pm, with additional entry points open until 8 pm. Furthermore, weekend closures have been implemented to facilitate ongoing construction activities and expedite project completion. The steady flow of traffic on the Coastal Road underscores its pivotal role in alleviating congestion and enhancing connectivity within Mumbai. As the route continues to mature, it is poised to become a critical component of the city’s transportation network, catering to the evolving needs of commuters and facilitating smoother intra-city travel.
“As the days passed, the number of joyrides reduced. As per our estimation, regular traffic flow has started now. Once the Worli and Haji Ali interchanges open and the Coastal Road connects with the sea link, many more motorists will opt for the route,” said an official from BMC’s Coastal Road department. The Coastal Road’s transition from joyrides to routine commuter traffic signifies a significant milestone in Mumbai’s urban mobility landscape, heralding a new era of efficient and sustainable transportation infrastructure.
