Mumbai’s Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) is all set to witness a major boost in traffic flow with the inauguration of a 180-metre signal-free road, which is expected to significantly reduce congestion in one of the city’s busiest business districts. Constructed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the new road connects the MTNL Junction to the BKC-Chunabhatti connector, providing an essential link for smoother travel.
The road, which runs alongside the Mithi River, is strategically positioned to connect the G Block in BKC to the Eastern Express Highway, one of the city’s major arterial routes. The project, which was completed in just six months, comes at an estimated cost of ₹3.98 crore. The launch of this road is expected to reduce the travel time for commuters significantly and offer a more efficient dispersal of traffic through BKC. MMRDA officials highlighted that the newly constructed road would provide a signal-free route, which is crucial for improving traffic flow in the area. “This 180-metre, six-lane road will facilitate faster movement of vehicles, reducing congestion and travel time, especially for those heading towards key BKC landmarks like the MCA Club and various consulates,” an MMRDA official said.
BKC has seen a sharp increase in vehicle traffic due to the rapid expansion of commercial spaces. During peak hours, it can take upwards of 30 minutes to travel just four kilometres, with traffic speeds averaging seven to eight minutes per kilometre. Moreover, the ongoing construction of Metro Line 2B (Andheri West-BKC-Mandale) and the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train has further strained BKC’s infrastructure, making commuting more challenging. Currently, BKC is served by four major entry-exit points: Sion-Dharavi-Kalanagar, Santacruz-Chembur Link Road, Taximen’s Colony, and the BKC-Chunabhatti connector, which opened in November 2019. While the BKC-Chunabhatti connector has alleviated some traffic congestion, the increasing number of motorists using this route has resulted in traffic build-up within BKC, particularly during rush hours.
The new coastal road is expected to provide much-needed relief by easing traffic congestion on internal roadways, enhancing connectivity, and enabling smoother travel to and from BKC. This development is in line with the city’s ongoing efforts to address its traffic woes and enhance the urban transport infrastructure, ultimately benefiting both commuters and businesses in this vital commercial hub. As Mumbai continues to expand and modernise, such infrastructural upgrades are crucial for ensuring smoother urban mobility, reducing travel times, and improving the overall quality of life for residents and workers alike.
