Mumbai’s Coastal Road project is facing significant challenges as water leaks have emerged in the tunnels even before the onset of the monsoon season. On Monday evening, water was observed dripping from the tunnel roofs, with dark, damp spots on the walls indicating areas where paint had chipped off due to moisture.
Drip lines extended from these dark spots to the floor, and water had accumulated near the Marine Drive end of the tunnel, approximately 100 metres from the exit. An official disclosed that the leaks had been present since Sunday morning, noting that the dampness appeared to originate from the construction joints. The precise cause of the leakage remains undetermined, as the area cannot be inspected thoroughly until traffic ceases at 11 pm. The official mentioned that grouting would be employed to address the issue. The presence of minor leaks was anticipated due to the joints connecting the tunnel segments, though the exact cause still needs investigation. Despite ongoing efforts to mitigate the leakage since it was first noticed, the situation worsened on Monday. Another official involved in the construction assured that the tunnels had been made waterproof through grouting but acknowledged that additional grouting might be necessary. Further assessment of the leaks is pending a detailed inspection.
Previously, on April 10, tidal waters had intruded into the Haji Ali Coastal Road’s pedestrian underpass during high tide. In response, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced plans to prevent water accumulation. These measures include constructing a hump at the underpass entrance and installing a 1,200 mm pipe parallel to the pathway from the promenade to the seaside.
The current leakage issues in the Coastal Road tunnels underscore significant concerns about the project’s resilience and integrity ahead of Mumbai’s monsoon season. The BMC’s prompt response and remedial measures will be crucial to ensure the infrastructure can withstand the forthcoming heavy rains. Such incidents highlight the necessity for rigorous quality control and effective waterproofing strategies in large-scale infrastructure projects, especially in a city like Mumbai, which is prone to severe monsoon conditions. Ensuring the durability of the Coastal Road project is vital for the city’s infrastructure network. The project, once completed, is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity along Mumbai’s western coastline. Therefore, addressing these pre-monsoon leaks promptly and effectively is imperative for the project’s long-term success and reliability.
