Mega Thane Infrastructure Projects - INR 20,000 Crore Boost for Regional Connectivity

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has received bids from five companies for two transformative infrastructure projects in Thane. These projects include a 5.5-km six-lane tunnel from Gaimukh to Fountain Hotel on Ghodbunder Road and a 9.8-km elevated road connecting Bhayander with the same junction.

Vital Regional Upgrades

Estimated at INR 20,000 crore, the initiatives are part of MMRDA's strategy to enhance connectivity and ease traffic congestion across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

The Gaimukh-Fountain Hotel tunnel will be the region's third major connector, complementing the Borivli-Thane twin tunnels and the Metro-10 double-decker corridor.

The elevated road will feature an eight-lane creek bridge linking the proposed tunnel to the Bandra-Versova-Mira Bhayander Sea Link, creating a seamless travel experience.

Key Features of the Projects

Tunnel: Six lanes (three each way), designed to navigate challenging hilly terrain.

Elevated Road: Integration with the Bhayander-Ghodbunder Road creek bridge for streamlined traffic flow.

Future Connectivity: Direct links to the upcoming 13.2-km Thane Coastal Road and the Virar-Alibaug multimodal corridor.

Timeline and Execution

Approved in July 2024, the projects are expected to be completed within 54 months of commencement. The timeline accounts for regulatory approvals, environmental clearances, and monsoon delays. A 24-month defect liability period will follow to ensure long-term quality and safety.

Sustainable Design and Reduced Displacement

MMRDA is taking measures to minimize displacement during project execution. The tunnel design accommodates the elevated Metro corridor and the area's hilly landscape, ensuring an efficient and environmentally considerate development.

Enhanced Connectivity Across Thane and Beyond

These projects aim to complete MMR's ring road network, boosting travel efficiency and improving accessibility across Thane, Bhayander, and Mumbai. The Gaimukh-Payegaon creek bridge is also planned to reduce bottlenecks and integrate the road and Metro networks in the region.