The much-anticipated completion of Mumbai’s coastal road project has been further delayed, with full operations now expected to commence only in October.
This represents a nearly two-year postponement from the original deadline. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has attributed this delay to several critical factors. A significant contributor to the setback is the current labour shortage, as approximately 20% of the workforce, amounting to around 6,500 workers, has returned to their native places. This exodus is a common occurrence in May and has created a substantial gap in the labour force required for the project. Additionally, the imminent monsoon season poses another hurdle. The laying of bitumen, an essential element of road construction that requires dry conditions, will be temporarily halted during the rainy season.
As of now, 89.2% of the overall project work has been completed. This includes 88% of the road construction and 91% of the interchanger work. The BMC plans to open the northbound stretch from Marine Drive to Haji Ali by June 10, with ongoing construction continuing towards Worli. However, due to the monsoon, activities such as laying bitumen will be on hold, further pushing the project timeline. Originally slated for completion by 2022, the coastal road project commenced in December 2018 but has encountered multiple delays. The initial completion date was moved from November 2023 to March 2024 due to modifications in the navigation span between two piers, which was increased from the proposed 56 metres to 120 metres. The project’s total cost stands at Rs 13,984 crore.
These delays underscore the complexities and challenges inherent in large-scale infrastructure projects. The BMC’s decision to adjust the completion date aims to ensure the quality and safety of the coastal road, ultimately providing Mumbai with a critical transport artery designed to alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity. As the city anticipates the completion of this significant project, stakeholders and residents alike will be closely monitoring the progress, hoping for no further delays. The successful completion of the coastal road is expected to significantly enhance Mumbai’s infrastructure and provide long-term benefits to its transportation network.
