In a significant move to enhance connectivity in and around Mumbai, the state government unveiled ambitious plans in the interim budget presented on Tuesday. The proposal outlines projects designed to improve transportation links within the city and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), emphasizing both roadways and sea connectivity.
Mumbai Connectivity Projects in Focus
- Coastal Road to Palghar: The proposed coastal road extending up to Palghar aims to streamline transportation and ease connectivity for residents in the northern outskirts of Mumbai.
- Eastern Freeway Extension to Thane: The extension of the Vilasrao Deshmukh Eastern Freeway to Thane city is set to provide an efficient roadway connection, addressing the growing demand for improved transportation infrastructure.
- Multimodal Corridor for Virar-Alibaug: Land acquisition for the Virar-Alibaug multimodal corridor is in progress, with an estimated cost of Rs 22,225 crore. This corridor is poised to enhance connectivity between Virar and Alibaug, facilitating smoother movement within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
- Enhanced Sea Connectivity: The interim budget also earmarks funds for sea connectivity projects, including the development of a new port near Elephanta and the construction of a well-equipped jetty near the Gateway of India, aligning with the Sagarmala scheme.
- Skill Development Initiatives: To bolster skill development, the budget proposes the establishment of a leather park at Deonar, an industrial training centre for leather at Govandi, and a modern training and skill development facility at Worli.
State Finance Minister’s Vision
State Finance Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar emphasized key projects, including the extension of the Swatantrya Veer Savarkar Versova-Bandra Sea Bridge to Palghar. He also highlighted the extension of the Vilasrao Deshmukh Eastern Freeway to Thane and the progress in land acquisition for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project.
Transformative Impact
These proposed projects aim to not only alleviate traffic congestion but also boost economic development and connectivity across Mumbai and the larger Metropolitan Region. The state government’s commitment to improving infrastructure aligns with the broader vision of fostering growth and prosperity in the region.
