The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has undertaken a major demolition drive in Versova, Andheri West, removing several residential and commercial structures that were obstructing work on the Mumbai Coastal Road North project linking Versova to Dahisar.
As part of the ongoing clearance efforts, the civic body has also proposed eviction and demolition of 12 additional constructions that fall under the jurisdiction of the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority.
The Versova–Dahisar Link Road (VDLR) is a crucial infrastructure initiative aimed at easing traffic congestion in Mumbai’s western suburbs. Being developed by the BMC, the 20-km corridor—estimated at Rs 16,621 crore and slated for completion by December 2028—is expected to significantly improve north–south connectivity. Once operational, it is likely to reduce travel time between Versova and Dahisar and ease the burden on key arterial routes such as the Western Express Highway and S.V. Road. However, progress has been impacted by the need to clear and relocate numerous residential, commercial and utility structures along the alignment.
Providing details of the recent action, Chakrapani Alle said, “Three residential and 29 commercial units obstructing the Versova–Dahisar stretch were demolished.” The operation was conducted by teams from the Maintenance, Encroachment Removal and Licensing departments, following due procedure.
The demolition drive, however, has also led to legal pushback, with at least one affected property owner approaching the court to challenge the action. Meanwhile, the proposed removal of the remaining structures under Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority is expected to be taken up in the next phase as the project advances.
Source: The Free Press Journal
