September 8, 2025: The Versova-Bandra Sea Link (VBSL), officially named the Swatantrya Veer Savarkar Sea Link, is nearing completion and is expected to be a major connector for suburban Mumbai. The project, undertaken by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), will create a 9.8 km, 4+4 lane motorway running parallel to the city’s western coastline.
Once operational, the sea link will reduce travel time between Versova and Bandra to just 10–15 minutes, compared to the current 45–60 minutes. This coastal route is designed to ease congestion on key arterial roads such as the Western Express Highway and SV Road, which remain heavily burdened by suburban traffic.
The VBSL will connect Bandra, Juhu, and Versova, with dispersal points at Carter Road and Juhu Koliwada. It also includes several connectors: Bandra Connector (2.2 km), Carter Road Connector (2.6 km), and Juhu Koliwada Connector (2.6 km). Its central highlight is a 300-metre cable-stayed bridge, supplemented by three additional navigation spans of 100–120 metres. Toll plazas at various points will ensure smooth management of traffic flow.
Construction involves advanced engineering techniques like segment casting and pier construction to overcome challenges of building on water. According to MSRDC, about 60% of the project has been completed as of August 2025.
Initially budgeted at Rs 11,332.82 crore, costs have escalated to Rs 18,120.96 crore due to delays and overruns. The state government has set a two-year target to complete the project, with further plans to extend the link northwards to Dahisar and Bhayandar within the next two to three years.
When finished, the Versova-Bandra Sea Link will be an integral part of Mumbai’s coastal road and sea link network, significantly strengthening suburban connectivity.
Source: Realty Plus
