In a major step toward transforming Mumbai’s urban infrastructure, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday directed the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and other key agencies to expedite the Orange Gate–Marine Drive twin tunnel project. The initiative is designed to alleviate traffic congestion in South Mumbai and fortify the city’s expanding transport network.
Chairing a high-level review meeting, CM Fadnavis said, “In response to Mumbai’s growing traffic concerns, the government is prioritising large-scale infrastructure upgrades. The MMRDA is spearheading the twin tunnel project to provide relief from congestion in South Mumbai.”
The Chief Minister called for tight coordination among all participating agencies and urged the adoption of a time-bound execution plan, with the target to complete the project by December 2028. He underscored that the tunnel would offer a seamless corridor between the Eastern Freeway and Atal Setu, dramatically cutting travel time and costs for daily commuters.
Labelled an “ambitious project”, the twin tunnel is expected to introduce a new dimension to South Mumbai’s transport infrastructure while contributing significantly to the city’s economic and geographic expansion.
Currently, key groundwork including tunnel boring, land acquisition, and pile foundation is in progress. A revised technical proposal, prepared in consultation with the traffic department, is now in place. The CM has also directed timely upgrades along SV Patel Road and Marine Drive, in line with the approved redevelopment blueprint.
Upon completion, the tunnel will not only ease traffic flow but also reduce vehicular emissions, making a positive impact on urban air quality and supporting a more structured approach to urban mobility.
In a parallel development, CM Fadnavis issued fresh instructions regarding the long-pending redevelopment of MHADA colonies in Abhyudaya Nagar. Noting poor response to previous tender invitations due to unviable area norms, he approved a reduction in the minimum carpet area for rehabilitation flats from 635 sq ft to 620 sq ft.
He also stated that developers offering more than 620 sq ft will be given preference, to ensure better living conditions for residents.
Furthermore, CM Fadnavis directed that the three FSI index under Regulation 33(5) be granted as housing stock against premium, while positively considering a revision of the current ₹20,000 monthly rent provided to residents during the redevelopment phase.
Source: Dijiworld
