The development of the Airoli-Ghansoli Bridge, a crucial link across Thane Creek intended to improve mobility and reduce traffic congestion in the area, is expected to significantly improve Navi Mumbai’s infrastructure. As part of a larger urban transit design, the project also entails the extension of Palm Beach Road.
Jointly undertaken by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) and the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), this ambitious development aims to improve travel efficiency for thousands of commuters. Once completed, it is expected to reduce congestion during peak hours in Airoli, Ghansoli, and surrounding localities.
The bridge is strategically planned to cut down travel time for commuters heading towards the Navi Mumbai International Airport, as well as Mumbai’s eastern suburbs. It will also provide a crucial link to major employment and commercial hubs, including MIDC and the Mindspace IT Park.
Spanning a total length of 3.47 km, the Airoli-Ghansoli Bridge includes an elevated flyover of 1.9 km to pass through mangrove regions with minimal environmental disruption. The direct route will ease pressure on the heavily trafficked Thane-Belapur Road and Palm Beach Road, while also connecting to the Sion-Panvel Expressway and ending at Varista Junction.
This infrastructure will work in tandem with the Airoli-Mulund Bridge and the proposed Airoli-Katai Road, improving access to Kalyan, Ambernath, Badlapur, and Murbad.
With a total estimated cost of Rs 540 crore, the NMMC has earmarked Rs 372 crore in its 2023–24 budget, while CIDCO is contributing as part of its long-term development goals. The revised design—featuring a flyover to reduce ecological harm—addresses the concerns that halted CIDCO’s earlier plan due to mangrove-related environmental constraints.
The project is expected to be finished by September 2026, with construction having started in February 2025. NMMC officials have given contractors strong instructions to follow the schedule.
A senior NMMC official commented, “The Airoli-Ghansoli Bridge marks a pivotal shift in Navi Mumbai’s transit landscape. It’s not just about easing traffic but about unlocking growth and improving regional connectivity. Along with the Palm Beach Road extension, it will redefine the commuter experience. We are progressing steadily and are confident of meeting the September 2026 deadline.”
Source: The Indian Express
