Mumbai Coastal Road Boosts Traffic Flow Spurs Environmental Debate
The recent inauguration of the southbound bridge connecting the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL) to Mumbai’s Coastal Road has led to a significant uptick in daily vehicular traffic. Approximately 4,000 additional vehicles now traverse this high-speed corridor each day, underscoring the infrastructure’s role in enhancing urban mobility.
Prior to the bridge’s opening on 26th January 2025, the Coastal Road accommodated between 18,000 to 20,000 vehicles daily. Post-inauguration data indicates a surge, with 24,375 southbound and 23,832 northbound vehicles recorded between 27th January and 24th February. This increase aligns with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) projections, attributing it to the seamless connectivity now available between Bandra and Marine Drive.
The Coastal Road operates daily from 7 a.m. to midnight, offering motorists a signal-free journey that previously took 45 minutes to an hour, now reduced to approximately 10 minutes. This efficiency is expected to improve further with the upcoming inauguration of three interchange arms—two at Worli and one at Haji Ali. The Worli interchanges are slated for completion by the end of March, while the Haji Ali arm is anticipated to be operational by May.
Since its phased opening began in March 2024, the Coastal Road has progressively enhanced Mumbai’s transportation infrastructure. The southbound carriageway became operational on 11th March 2024, followed by the northbound stretch to Haji Ali on 10th June 2024. Subsequently, the segment from Haji Ali to Worli opened on 11th July 2024, and the northbound bowstring arch bridge linking the Coastal Road to the BWSL was inaugurated on 12th September 2024. The recent addition of the southbound connector on 26th January 2025 marks a pivotal step towards the project’s full commissioning. The Coastal Road’s introduction has notably alleviated congestion on alternative routes. Traffic police have observed reductions of up to 80% on previously congested roads such as Worli Sea Face and Pedder Road, indicating a positive shift in urban traffic patterns.
However, this infrastructural advancement has not been without environmental and social considerations. The Coastal Road project has faced scrutiny regarding its ecological impact, particularly concerning coastal habitats and local fishing communities. Environmental assessments have highlighted potential disruptions to intertidal organisms and the livelihoods of artisanal fishermen. Additionally, the project has been cited in climate change discussions as an example of potentially maladaptive infrastructure, raising concerns about long-term environmental consequences.
In response to these challenges, the BMC has undertaken measures to mitigate adverse effects. Revised designs for certain segments, such as the Worli interchange, have been implemented to address concerns raised by local stakeholders, including the fishing community. These adjustments aim to balance infrastructural development with ecological preservation and social equity. Furthermore, the Coastal Road project is part of a broader initiative to modernise Mumbai’s infrastructure, including efforts to monsoon-proof roads with durable, weather-resistant materials. This comprehensive approach seeks to enhance the city’s resilience to climate change while promoting sustainable urban development.
As Mumbai continues to evolve, the integration of eco-friendly and sustainable practices in urban planning remains paramount. The Coastal Road exemplifies the city’s endeavour to improve connectivity and reduce traffic congestion, while also highlighting the necessity for ongoing dialogue and action to ensure environmental stewardship and social inclusivity. Achieving a net-zero carbon footprint and fostering equitable urban spaces are integral to Mumbai’s vision of a sustainable future.
