The Maharashtra government has unveiled a series of proposals aimed at improving Mumbai’s transport infrastructure, including underground parking facilities beneath major open grounds and a signal-free road corridor connecting Nariman Point to Uttan.
Speaking in the state Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the government is exploring the construction of underground parking below locations such as Oval Maidan, Cross Maidan and other prominent playgrounds to tackle the city’s chronic parking shortage without affecting existing recreational spaces.
“This is only a concept at present, and expert opinion will be sought before taking it forward,” Fadnavis said. He added that the project would require substantial investment, and the government would examine multiple funding options before proceeding.
The state also plans to extend Mumbai’s Coastal Road beyond the city limits to Uttan and eventually Virar. Once completed, the corridor is expected to provide uninterrupted travel from Nariman Point to the proposed airport near Virar, reducing the journey from South Mumbai to around 50 minutes.
To strengthen east-west connectivity, the government has proposed several cable-stayed bridges at Mumbai Central, Mahalaxmi, Mahim-Bandra, Malad and Borivali. Other major infrastructure projects include the Thane-Borivali Link and the Goregaon-Mulund tunnel and bridge, which are expected to improve connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
During his address, Fadnavis also defended the Mumbai-Pune Expressway Missing Link project following criticism after a landslide led to its temporary closure on July 6.
“People may abuse me; I am used to it. But I will not tolerate anyone insulting Maharashtra,” he said.
Taking a swipe at the Opposition, the Chief Minister said the current criticism would eventually fade, while the Missing Link project would be remembered for reducing travel time as well as accidents and fatalities along the ghat section.
The proposed transport initiatives are part of the state government’s broader strategy to improve urban mobility and ease congestion across Mumbai.
Source: Mid-day
