The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has approached the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) seeking Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance for the proposed Thane Coastal Road 2 (TCR-2), a 7.13-km corridor planned between Anand Nagar in Mulund East and Balkum in Thane. The project, estimated at Rs 5,140.92 crore, forms the second phase of the Thane Coastal Road network and aims to improve connectivity while easing traffic pressure in Thane and nearby areas.
As per the proposal submitted to the MCZMA, a major portion of the corridor will be developed as an elevated road constructed on stilts. After completion, the project will provide links to key infrastructure initiatives, including the Anand Nagar–Saket elevated road and the first phase of the Thane Coastal Road connecting Balkum and Gaimukh. MMRDA expects these connections to create a smoother transport network and reduce dependence on existing congested roads.
The proposed route will pass through areas including Mulund, Kopri, Chendeni, Kasbe, Khari, Tarf Khairane and Balkum before reaching Thane. The authority has stated that the corridor has been planned as an alternate route to improve movement of both local commuters and regional traffic by reducing pressure on crowded stretches within Thane city.
However, the project requires environmental approvals due to its passage through ecologically sensitive locations. Around 5.3 km of the alignment falls under the CRZ area because of mangroves and its proximity to Thane Creek. The proposal involves diversion of 12.72 hectares of mangrove land and the removal of 1,733 mangrove trees, which will require detailed assessment by environmental authorities.
The alignment also passes through areas linked to the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. Due to the ecological importance of these regions, obtaining necessary clearances remains a crucial step before construction begins.
In its application, MMRDA stated that the Thane Coastal Road is required to provide a bypass route for local and external traffic moving through the city. The authority expects the project to help reduce congestion, shorten travel time, lower accident risks and improve air quality and noise levels.
While some residents have questioned the need for another major road project alongside the under-construction Anand Nagar–Saket elevated road, others believe TCR-2 has been planned to meet future traffic demands and divert vehicles from the Eastern Express Highway.
The project is currently awaiting CRZ approval from the MCZMA, which will decide the next phase of implementation.
Source: Prop News Time
