Mumbai’s urban streets are set to see renewed activity as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) resumes its large-scale road concretisation programme following a four-month monsoon hiatus. The civic body has prioritised completing 574 partially concreted roads before moving on to 776 additional stretches awaiting work. The move underscores the BMC’s commitment to improving city mobility while integrating sustainable and eco-conscious construction practices.
Officials explained that roads narrower than 12 metres or sections affected by encroachments may not be immediately concreted. However, in areas with significant local demand, the BMC has indicated work could proceed. For temporarily excluded roads, mastic asphalt will be applied to maintain surface quality, ensuring residents experience minimal disruption while the larger infrastructure upgrade continues. Since its launch in January 2023, the road concretisation initiative has already made notable progress. Phase 1, covering 700 roads, is 63.53% complete, while Phase 2, spanning 1,421 roads, is 36.84% complete. Of the city’s 2,121 targeted roads, 771 are fully concreted, 574 are partially completed, and 776 are yet to be started. Notably, 360 partially concreted roads lie in the western suburbs, while most unconcreted stretches remain in the island city, largely due to previous contractual delays.
The updated BMC policy reflects a flexible approach, evaluating each road segment on a case-by-case basis. Roads with good subgrade quality and low traffic may utilise ultra-thin white topping (UTWT), where a thin layer of concrete is poured directly on the surface. This technique enhances road durability while reducing excavation and disruption, aligning with sustainable construction practices. Residents in areas such as Mount Mary and A Ward have previously expressed concerns over concreting roads they considered in good condition. The BMC has responded with a balanced strategy, aiming to harmonise citizen convenience with long-term infrastructure resilience. Experts suggest that completing partially concreted roads first will reduce maintenance cycles and provide safer, longer-lasting streets, ultimately benefiting all commuters.
The resumption of work marks a critical phase in Mumbai’s pursuit of durable, eco-friendly urban infrastructure. By prioritising flexibility, local demand, and sustainable construction techniques, the BMC is seeking to upgrade road networks while preserving urban livability. The project is expected to accelerate in the coming months, delivering improved road safety, reduced maintenance requirements, and smoother traffic flow across the city.
Also Read: Mumbai Local Trains Face Megablocks Today Central Harbour Trans Harbours Active
