Mumbai: According to civic officials, on the inaugural day of Mumbai’s coastal road operation, more than 16,000 vehicles traversed the stretch between Worli and Marine Lines. Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) data reveals that 16,331 vehicles utilized the southbound carriageway within 12 hours of opening. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde inaugurated the first phase, a 10.5-km-long stretch named ‘Dharmaveer Sambhaji Maharaj Coastal Road.
The toll-free road experienced peak traffic between 3 pm and 4 pm, with 1,941 vehicles, equivalent to 32 per minute. During the first operational hour, 480 vehicles (eight per minute) used the road, while the final hour recorded 496. Throughout the day, steady traffic flow was observed, with notable spikes from noon to 1 pm, 2 pm to 3 pm, and 3 pm to 4 pm, each exceeding 30 vehicles per minute. The road will operate for 12 hours daily, from 8 am to 8 pm, as the civic body aims to expedite remaining work. The next phase is expected to open in May 2024.
The 53-km-long coastal road, extending to Dahisar, aims to save fuel, time, and reduce pollution, as per CM Shinde. Commencing on October 13, 2018, the ambitious project’s projected cost is ₹12,721 crore. Despite being designed for speeds exceeding 100 kmph, Mumbai traffic police imposed speed limits of 80 kmph outside the tunnel, 60 kmph inside, and 40 kmph on curvatures.
The overwhelming response on day one signifies the public’s eagerness to embrace this infrastructure marvel, offering not only improved connectivity but also potential environmental benefits. The consistent traffic flow throughout the day underscores the road’s significance in addressing transportation needs in Mumbai, while the planned phases indicate a commitment to continued infrastructure development.
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