Mumbai and Navi Mumbai commuters. The Mumbai-bound section of the Thane Creek Bridge, also known as the Vashi Bridge, is slated to open by February 2025, marking a major milestone in improving the flow of traffic between the two cities. This expansion is part of a larger project to widen the bridge to a total of 12 lanes, greatly benefiting daily travelers.
The new Mumbai-bound section follows the opening of the Navi Mumbai-bound section on October 13, 2024. The final touches, including the installation of crash barriers, lighting, and electrical systems, are nearing completion. Once fully operational, the upgraded bridge will accommodate the 64,300 vehicles that travel this route daily, significantly easing congestion and ensuring smoother commutes. The project, spearheaded by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), is a ₹559 crore initiative that involves constructing twin bridges alongside the original 1997 bridge. This expansion addresses the growing traffic demand fueled by the rapid development and rising population of Navi Mumbai. The new bridges will provide better access for both commuters and businesses. Meanwhile, the iconic 1973 bridge, which was closed to regular traffic years ago for safety reasons, still serves as a popular filming location, frequently appearing in Bollywood movies.
Once the new Mumbai-bound section opens, it will greatly ease the daily commute between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, improving overall transportation infrastructure in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The enhanced connectivity is expected to reduce travel time, alleviate congestion, and support the continued growth of Navi Mumbai, further integrating the two cities. This expansion of the Thane Creek Bridge will play a crucial role in modernizing Mumbai’s infrastructure, improving the quality of life for residents and boosting economic development in the region.
