Exciting developments are on the horizon for Navi Mumbai as the city prepares for two groundbreaking infrastructure projects—the Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link (MTHL) and the Mumbai-Pune Expressway Missing Link. These initiatives are poised to revolutionize the city’s connectivity and urban landscape, addressing persistent transportation challenges and fostering economic growth.
The Missing Link project aims to fill crucial gaps in the current road network between Mumbai and Pune, ensuring seamless connectivity within the city. This ambitious undertaking will not only enhance accessibility but also elevate the overall mobility experience for residents and businesses.
However, the inauguration of both these projects is expected in the coming year. While work on MTHL is nearing completion, the Missing Link faces some challenges and is likely to be finished within the next six to seven months.
Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link
Contrary to earlier reports suggesting an inauguration on December 25, 2023, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has clarified that the link connecting Mumbai and Navi Mumbai will open only next year.
Spanning 21.8 kilometers, the MTHL is a road bridge linking the satellite city with Mumbai. As the longest sea bridge in India, it starts in Sewri, South Mumbai, crosses Thane Creek north of Elephanta Island, and terminates at Chirle village, near Nhava Sheva in Navi Mumbai.
Reports of a December 25 inauguration were debunked by an unnamed MMRDA official, stating that the MTHL would be inaugurated next year, with no finalized date disclosed.
The MTHL bridge significantly improves connectivity to the proposed Navi Mumbai International Airport, JNPT Port, Mumbai–Pune Expressway, and Mumbai–Goa Highway. On the Mumbai side, connectivity with the coastal road is planned through the Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector project.
The project, costing an estimated Rs 17,843 Crore, involves a 21.8 km bridge with 16.50 km over the sea and 5.5 km on land. It features a 6-lane highway with an emergency lane on both sides and incorporates unique construction methods, including Orthotropic Steel Deck spans.
Mumbai-Pune Expressway Missing Link
The Missing Link is expected to become operational in September 2024. An official from the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) noted the challenging construction of the viaduct and link due to factors like high wind pressure. The completion is projected by September 2024.
The section of the Mumbai Pune Expressway from Khopoli exit to Sinhgad Institute is presently 19 km, which will reduce to 13.3 km after constructing the Missing Link. The total Expressway length from Mumbai to Pune will be reduced by 6 km, shortening travel time by 20-25 minutes. The project cost is estimated at Rs 6695.37 Crore.
As these infrastructure projects take shape, Navi Mumbai is set to become a dynamic economic hub, attracting investment and talent. The enhanced connectivity holds the promise of unlocking the region’s full potential, ushering in a new era of prosperity and sustainable development, eagerly anticipated by residents.