In a significant move set to revolutionize urban connectivity, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has officially commenced construction on the highly anticipated Eastern Freeway extension. This ambitious Rs 2,682-crore project promises to deliver a seamless, signal-free commute, dramatically cutting the travel time between South Mumbai and Thane to a mere 30-35 minutes.
Project Blueprint: A 13.90 Km Engineering Marvel
The cornerstone of this initiative is the construction of a 13.90 km elevated corridor that will extend the existing Eastern Freeway from its current endpoint. The new structure will commence near Chheda Nagar in Ghatkopar and weave its way through key suburban areas before culminating at Anand Nagar in Thane.
The proposed route is strategically planned to pass over Ramabai Nagar, Vikhroli, Kanjurmarg, JVLR, Airoli, and Mulund. For commuters heading towards South Mumbai, the authority has planned convenient two-lane ramps for entry and exit at three crucial junctions: near Mulund Check Naka, Airoli Junction, and Vikhroli Junction.
Once in Thane, this corridor will seamlessly integrate with another elevated project, the Anand Nagar to Saket corridor, at the Mulund Octroi Naka, creating an extensive and unified network.
Design and Current Status of the Work
The engineering specifications for the corridor are impressive. The superstructure will have a width of 25 metres, accommodating three lanes on each carriageway for a total of six lanes. The span length for the elevated sections is set at 40 metres.
As of now, the MMRDA has made tangible progress. Official reports confirm that about 5.38 per cent of the physical work has been executed. The initial phases, including preliminary surveys and test piling, are complete. The authority is currently engaged in geotechnical investigations and utility identification. Notably, the casting of piers has already begun on the ground.
The project's environmental impact is also being addressed, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation issuing notices as the construction is slated to affect approximately 700 trees along the Eastern Express Highway.
Timeline and Commuter Benefits
The entire project is estimated to be completed within a four-year timeline. This period includes 12 months allocated for design finalization and obtaining environmental clearances, with the remaining 36 months dedicated to the actual construction work.
An MMRDA official emphasized the transformative potential of the project, stating that upon completion, it will enable commuters to travel signal-free and toll-free all the way from South Mumbai to Thane. This is poised to decongest existing road networks and provide a massive boost to the daily commute for thousands of residents, fostering better economic integration within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
