The Kashedi Tunnel, a crucial stretch on the Mumbai-Goa National Highway, continues to grapple with water leakage issues, frustrating authorities and motorists alike.
Despite significant financial investments in repairs and multiple remedial measures, the tunnel’s water infiltration problem has shown little sign of abating. The tunnel, which connects the coastal states via one of the most vital roadways, has been plagued by water seepage since its inception. Even with both lanes open to traffic, the ongoing leakage problem remains a point of concern. The National Highways Construction Department (NHCD) has acknowledged the severity of the situation, despite the significant repairs already undertaken. Officials remain optimistic that the situation can be resolved within two months, but motorists and experts are growing increasingly sceptical about this timeline.
The tunnel’s water leakage problem is persistent, with the issue continuing even during the summer months when moisture infiltration is typically less pronounced. This ongoing water seepage suggests the underlying structural issues may be more complex than initially anticipated. The contractor responsible for the project has consulted experts in the field to determine long-term solutions, though previous efforts, such as the use of ‘grouting’ technology to prevent seepage, have not delivered the expected results. A recent inspection by experts from Mumbai’s Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) raised further concerns, though their advice on mitigating the water leakage problem has yet to produce tangible outcomes. The water infiltration, which has affected both the original and newly constructed lanes, is causing considerable frustration among commuters, who have already had to endure delays and inconveniences for years.
While the National Highways Department reports that nearly 80% of the repairs have been completed, the leaking problem remains unresolved. The department’s assurances that the issue will be fixed soon have not instilled confidence in those who rely on the tunnel for their travel. The challenge of fixing such a large-scale infrastructure problem highlights the inherent complexities of tunnel construction in challenging geographic conditions. In this case, the combination of geological factors and flawed implementation of repair solutions appears to have prolonged the issue.
The much-delayed Mumbai-Goa Highway, which has been in development for over 14 years, has been a source of growing frustration for both the government and commuters. Despite the completion of several stretches, the Kashedi Tunnel has continued to be a bottleneck, with water leakage compounding the delays already experienced on the project. As a result of the delays and water-related disruptions, many Mumbaikars have opted for the longer, less convenient Satara route to Goa, a diversion that takes considerably more time but offers a smoother journey. The persistent infrastructure issues along this stretch have sparked political discussions, with various stakeholders, including local politicians, pointing fingers at the contractors and the overseeing authorities for the lack of progress.
In addition to the logistical inconvenience, the Kashedi Tunnel’s water leakage has also raised environmental concerns. There are worries that the ongoing repair efforts, while necessary, may be compromising the structural integrity of the tunnel, which could lead to further long-term environmental and safety challenges. Given the tunnel’s location through a sensitive region prone to rainfall and moisture, the combination of recurring leaks and repairs presents a significant challenge for all involved. In recent years, several infrastructure projects across India have faced similar challenges, highlighting the need for better planning, design, and execution when dealing with critical national highways. The lack of effective coordination between contractors, engineers, and government bodies has contributed to delays, cost overruns, and unsatisfactory repairs.
Motorists passing through the Kashedi Tunnel are advised to proceed with caution. The leaking water poses a potential hazard for vehicles, with the tunnel’s surface becoming slippery, especially in the monsoon season when the water inflow intensifies. Given the history of ongoing problems, the department’s assurances about fixing the leaks have done little to quell public scepticism. The Kashedi Tunnel’s continued water leakage problems are symptomatic of broader challenges facing India’s infrastructure projects, especially in terms of timely completion, effective maintenance, and ensuring the durability of such significant construction projects.
While the National Highways Department and contractors continue to work on the issue, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will lead to a permanent solution or if the Kashedi Tunnel will remain a sore point on the Mumbai-Goa National Highway for years to come.
Kashedi Tunnel Faces Persistent Leakage Issues on Mumbai-Goa Highway
