The Mumbai Port Authority has appointed IIT Bombay as the Design and Project Management Consultant for a comprehensive upgrade of roads within the port estate, as rising traffic volumes place increasing pressure on the existing network.
According to the port authority, much of the road system was developed on reclaimed land and is now carrying traffic beyond its original design capacity. The proposed improvements are intended to enhance movement for commuters as well as vehicles serving port and industrial activities.
Phase I Covers Sewri-Mahul Stretch
The first phase of the programme will focus on approximately 2.6 km of road between Sewri Junction and Mahul Junction. Tenders have been invited for the works, which are estimated to cost around Rs 210.75 crore. The tender requires an earnest money deposit of approximately Rs 1.18 crore.
The Phase I contract also covers improvements at various locations within the port estate. These include road upgrades between 9 VD and 18 ID, the stretch from Grey Gate to 1 ID, and improvements to the 12 B yard and BPS yard storage areas.
IIT Bombay to Oversee Design and Execution
As the appointed consultant, IIT Bombay will prepare detailed engineering designs, assist with procurement-related processes and oversee the execution of the planned works. The institute’s role will include technical supervision through the project implementation stage.
The road network serves a diverse mix of traffic, including port freight vehicles, industrial traffic linked to fuel and chemical storage facilities in the Sewri-Mahul belt, and regular commuter movement. Growing traffic on roads that were not originally designed for present-day volumes has contributed to congestion in several locations.
Wider Port Area Transformation
The Mumbai Port estate, located along the city’s eastern waterfront, is undergoing broader changes as authorities seek to improve connectivity and unlock portions of port land for wider public use.
The port authority has previously relied on external technical institutions and consultants for major planning and infrastructure assignments. The latest appointment of IIT Bombay continues that approach by bringing specialised engineering expertise into the road-upgradation programme.
Further phases are expected to cover additional stretches within the port estate, although the scope and timelines for subsequent works have not yet been finalised.
Construction on the first phase is expected to begin after the tender process is completed, a contractor is appointed and the final project scope is established in consultation with IIT Bombay.
Source: Prop News Time
