Madh-Versova Cable-Stayed Bridge to be a Reality Soon as BMC approves Rs 3246 Crore Mega Project

Summary:

The BMC has approved the Rs 3,246 crore Madh-Versova cable-stayed bridge, set to improve connectivity between Versova and Madh with 24-hour access, reducing travel distances by 3-4 km. This 2.06 km bridge will enhance local infrastructure, boost real estate values, and is expected to be completed within 36 months.

Bridge Design and Features

The bridge, spanning 2.06 km, will feature three cable-stayed sections measuring 150 m, 300 m, and 150 m. These sections will have four lanes, while the remaining part of the bridge will be six-laned. Vehicles on this structure will be able to travel at speeds of up to 100 km/h, significantly enhancing travel efficiency.

Starting from Amaranth Road, near Versova Koliwada, and concluding at the Madh jetty, the bridge will provide 24-hour connectivity between Madh and Versova, overcoming the limitations of the current ferry service, which does not operate during nighttime hours.

History and Timeline of the Project

The Madh-Versova bridge was originally proposed in 2015, but the final blueprint wasn’t completed until five years later. Initially estimated at Rs 700 crore, the project’s cost was re-evaluated in March 2024, with the updated figure of Rs 2,038 crore reflecting current market rates. After tenders were invited in March, the final proposal was passed in August 2024. The bridge is expected to be completed within 36 months.

Environmental and Local Impact

The project has received clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, with permissions from the Forest Department still pending. Currently, residents of Madh Island and Aksa Village must travel approximately 10 km to reach the city via Malad. The new bridge will reduce this distance by 3-4 km, greatly improving accessibility.

Boost to Real Estate in Madh Island

One of the biggest beneficiaries of this infrastructure project is Raheja Exotica (Raheja Versova Island), a prominent real estate development in Madh Island. The improved connectivity is expected to significantly enhance property values in the region, making it an attractive investment opportunity. Of course prices of land in Madh Island, villas in Madh Island, properties in Madh Island and overall real estate in Madh Island will increase drastically due to this bridge.

History

In March 2022, the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) directed the BMC to explore an alternative alignment for the bridge to reduce its impact on the mangroves. The project also faced resistance from the local fishing community in Versova-Madh, who argued that the bridge's design would create challenges for boat parking.

However, in January this year, the BMC secured the required environmental clearances, allowing them to move forward with the construction and issue tenders.

Key Info:

• Project Cost: Rs 3,246 crore
• Cost Variation: Rs 550 crore (24%)
• Length: 2.06 km
• Cable-Stayed Sections: 150 m, 300 m, 150 m (4 lanes each)
• Rest of Bridge: 6 lanes
• Speed Limit: 100 km/h
• Completion Time: 36 months
• Initial Proposal: 2015
• Updated Blueprint: 2020
• Initial Cost Estimate: Rs 700 crore
• Final Proposal Passed: August 2024
• Environmental Clearance: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
• Change approved; Forest Department pending
• Distance Reduction: 3-4 km for Madh Island and Aksa Village
• Impact on Real Estate: Significant positive impact on Madh Island property values.