Navi Mumbais Kharghar-Turbhe Tunnel Link Road to Transform Connectivity

The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) has initiated the Kharghar-Turbhe Tunnel Link Road (KTLR) project. This ambitious ₹2,099 crore endeavour aims to alleviate traffic congestion and bolster connectivity between the northern and southern parts of Navi Mumbai.​

The KTLR project is poised to drastically reduce travel time between Turbhe and Kharghar from 40 minutes to a mere 10 minutes. The proposed 5.49 km four-lane road will commence from the Sion-Panvel Highway near Juinagar Railway Station and culminate at Central Park in Kharghar. A notable feature of the project is the 1.76 km twin tunnel through Kharghar Hill, complemented by a 3.4 km elevated viaduct, facilitating seamless east-west connectivity within Navi Mumbai and the broader Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) .​

The project’s strategic alignment is designed to alleviate the persistent traffic bottlenecks on the Sion-Panvel Highway, offering a direct route that bypasses congested areas. This development is expected to significantly enhance accessibility to key destinations, including the Atal Setu bridge and the forthcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, thereby fostering economic growth and regional integration .​

Beyond its infrastructural benefits, the KTLR project aligns with CIDCO’s commitment to sustainable urban development. The incorporation of a transit-oriented housing scheme near Kharghar Railway Station underscores the emphasis on creating eco-friendly, equitable, and gender-neutral urban spaces. This initiative aims to provide affordable housing solutions, promoting inclusivity and reducing the urban-rural divide .​

However, the project has not been without its challenges. Environmentalists have raised concerns regarding the lack of a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the tunnel construction through the eco-sensitive Kharghar Hill area. Activists argue that the absence of an EIA could jeopardize the region’s rich biodiversity, which includes various flora and fauna species . These concerns highlight the need for a balanced approach that harmonizes infrastructural development with environmental conservation. ​In response to these concerns, CIDCO has assured that all necessary environmental clearances and permissions are being obtained in compliance with regulatory norms. The corporation emphasizes its commitment to adhering to environmental guidelines to mitigate any adverse ecological impacts.​

As the KTLR project progresses, it stands as a testament to Navi Mumbai’s vision of becoming a model for sustainable urban development. By integrating advanced infrastructure with eco-friendly practices, CIDCO aims to create a city that is not only connected but also resilient and inclusive.​ The successful completion of the KTLR project is anticipated to set a precedent for future urban development initiatives, demonstrating that growth and sustainability can coexist. As Navi Mumbai continues to evolve, projects like the KTLR will play a pivotal role in shaping a future that is both progressive and environmentally conscious.​

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Navi Mumbais Kharghar-Turbhe Tunnel Link Road to Transform Connectivity