Mumbai motorists struggle with Coastal Road exits
Nearly a year since its partial inauguration, Mumbai’s Coastal Road has become an integral part of the city’s transport infrastructure, offering a high-speed, signal-free corridor for thousands of daily commuters. However, despite its engineering prowess, a significant challenge continues to plague motorists—unclear and poorly placed signages that leave many drivers, particularly cab operators and those unfamiliar with the route, confused about key interchanges and exits. The issue has led to instances of missed turns, last-minute manoeuvres, and concerns over road safety, with many calling for urgent rectifications to improve navigation.
Commuters have raised concerns over the placement of signboards, stating that they appear too late to facilitate a smooth exit. Motorists argue that by the time they spot a directional board, they have already committed to a particular lane, making it difficult to course-correct without causing disruptions. Some have suggested that signages be placed well in advance of decision points, rather than at the exit itself, and should also include illuminated displays for better visibility at night. Additionally, road markings indicating upcoming turns have been proposed as an effective way to guide drivers and minimise abrupt lane changes. While GPS navigation provides some relief, those unfamiliar with the road network, especially non-English-speaking taxi and rickshaw drivers, continue to struggle with real-time navigation.
Issues with signage placement are not new to Mumbai’s road infrastructure. Last year, following complaints about the Haji Ali interchange, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) installed an additional signboard to provide clearer directions. However, gaps in wayfinding persist, with motorists pointing out that first-time users of the Coastal Road often misinterpret the signage. For example, commuters heading from South Mumbai who intend to reach Worli must take a diversion towards the Bandra-Worli Sea Link; however, unclear instructions at the Worli Naka exit have led many to mistakenly end up at Lotus Court instead. Such errors force drivers to take circuitous routes to reach their destinations, negating the time-saving benefits of the expressway.
Despite growing feedback from motorists, the BMC has dismissed claims of inadequate signage, asserting that signboards have been strategically placed at crucial decision points, including intersections, ramps, and overhead gantries near Worli Dairy. According to civic authorities, the Coastal Road has witnessed an impressive 5 million vehicle movements between its inauguration on March 12, 2024, and December 31, 2024, with a daily average of 18,000-20,000 vehicles. However, with access to the road still restricted between midnight and 7 am, commuters are also calling for a full 24×7 operational schedule to maximise its utility. As Mumbai continues to push for infrastructure that enhances urban mobility, the effectiveness of signage and wayfinding remains a crucial factor in ensuring that the Coastal Road delivers on its promise of seamless and efficient transit.
