The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has crossed a major construction milestone in the Orange Gate–Marine Drive tunnel project by completing more than 650 metres of excavation. The progress marks a significant step in the development of Mumbai’s first deep underground road corridor, which is expected to improve east-west connectivity across South Mumbai.
The 9.96-km project, being developed at an approved cost of Rs 8,056 crore, includes nearly 7 km of twin underground tunnels connecting Orange Gate near the Eastern Freeway with Marine Drive. The corridor is designed to provide a faster road link between Mumbai’s eastern and western waterfronts while integrating with key transport infrastructure such as the Mumbai Coastal Road and the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (Atal Setu).
Excavation is being carried out using a 12.19-metre slurry shield tunnel boring machine, selected for its ability to operate in Mumbai’s coastal geological conditions and areas with high groundwater levels. The tunnel alignment passes beneath densely populated neighbourhoods and major transport infrastructure, including Central Railway, Western Railway and Metro Line 3, at depths ranging from approximately 12 metres to 52 metres.
Each of the twin tunnels will have two traffic lanes and an emergency lane, with a design speed of up to 80 kmph. The project will also feature cross passages, mechanical ventilation systems, fire-resistant infrastructure, intelligent traffic management systems and modern lighting to enhance operational safety.
According to MMRDA, the project has achieved around 14% physical progress.
Once completed, the underground corridor is expected to reduce travel time between Orange Gate and Marine Drive to nearly five minutes by diverting through traffic away from congested roads in South Mumbai. The project is also expected to improve freight movement, enhance commuter mobility, reduce fuel consumption and lower vehicle emissions.
The Orange Gate–Marine Drive tunnel forms part of MMRDA’s broader plan to expand underground transport infrastructure across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The project is expected to become an important addition to the city’s road network by providing a direct underground connection between the eastern waterfront and the western seafront while supporting Mumbai’s future transportation needs.
Source: Prop News Time
