Residents of South Mumbai have launched a citizen-led campaign urging authorities to add a new exit along the Mumbai Coastal Road, citing persistent congestion at the Breach Candy interchange. While the corridor has significantly reduced travel time overall, commuters say bottlenecks near the exit are undermining its benefits.
The concern centres on a 300-metre stretch beyond the Breach Candy exit, where traffic slows sharply during peak hours. Commuters report that this short segment alone can take 20 to 25 minutes to cross, accounting for a large portion of total journey time despite otherwise smooth travel along the route.
The Coastal Road, developed as a high-speed north-south link along Mumbai’s western coastline, has improved connectivity between South Mumbai and the western suburbs. However, limited exit points at key locations have led to congestion at interchanges.
Residents involved in the campaign claim that the original Detailed Project Report (DPR) had proposed an exit at Nepeansea Road, which was later dropped from the final plan. As a result, traffic is being channelled through fewer exits, especially near Amarsons Garden, increasing pressure on surrounding roads.
The campaign, titled “Unlock the Exit,” is advocating for a new access point on the northbound stretch. Supporters say a feasible solution exists by utilising land under the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation, enabling both vehicular and pedestrian connectivity without affecting existing promenade plans.
Residents have also flagged spillover traffic into internal roads like Bomanji Petit Road, where school traffic and on-street parking already strain capacity. The lack of a direct exit has forced vehicles into residential lanes, worsening congestion.
The issue highlights the importance of last-mile connectivity in large infrastructure projects. Authorities are yet to respond, and any changes would require technical review and multi-agency approvals.
Source: Prop News Time
