September 12, 2025: Mumbai is preparing for its most ambitious sea link yet, with the proposed Uttan–Virar Sea Link receiving clearance from the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA). The project now awaits final approval from the Union Environment Ministry before construction can commence.
Planned as a 55.1 km corridor, the scheme will include a 24.3 km main bridge from Uttan to Virar, three connector roads at Uttan, Vasai and Virar, and a short tunnel near Arnala Fort. Once completed, it will be the longest sea link in India, eclipsing both the Bandra–Worli and the under-construction Versova–Bandra links.
The project is expected to cut travel time between Nariman Point and Virar from nearly three hours to just one hour, while also easing traffic on the Western Express Highway, Link Road and SV Road. Authorities also see it as a key logistics link, providing direct connectivity to the planned Vadhavan Port and the Vadodara–Mumbai Expressway.
Initially estimated at Rs 87,427 crore, the cost has been pared down to Rs 52,652 crore after design revisions. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) achieved savings by reducing lanes from eight to six, trimming connector arms, and adopting single-pillar supports. Funding will be split between loans, expected to include support from JICA, and equity from the state government and MMRDA.
While the project will impact mangroves and reserved forest areas, the plan includes compensatory plantation of 52,000 trees and 27 environmental safeguards to protect marine biodiversity and local fishing livelihoods.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has instructed the MMRDA to fast-track clearances and set up a special purpose vehicle for execution. If approvals and financing proceed as planned, the Uttan–Virar Sea Link will become a cornerstone of Mumbai’s northward expansion and a defining infrastructure project for the metropolitan region.
Source: Times Property
