Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 12: In a significant move aimed at enhancing Mumbai’s urban infrastructure, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday directed the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and other concerned agencies to expedite the Orange Gate–Marine Drive twin tunnel project. The ambitious initiative is expected to ease traffic congestion in South Mumbai and strengthen the city’s transportation network.
Addressing officials in a high-level review meeting, CM Fadnavis stated, “In response to the growing traffic issues in Mumbai, the government is prioritizing the development of infrastructure projects. The MMRDA is developing a twin road tunnel between Orange Gate and Marine Drive to help ease traffic congestion in South Mumbai.”
Emphasizing the importance of timely execution, the Chief Minister urged all agencies involved to work in close coordination and adopt a time-bound plan to ensure the project is completed by December 2028. He underlined that the tunnel would play a pivotal role in providing a seamless connection between the Eastern Freeway and Atal Setu, thereby saving both time and cost for daily commuters.
Calling it an ‘ambitious project’ that would give South Mumbai’s infrastructure a ‘new dimension,’ CM Fadnavis highlighted that the initiative would not only address the issue of congestion but also contribute to the city's economic and geographical growth.
Currently, groundwork including tunnel boring, land acquisition, and pile foundation is underway. A revised technical proposal has been prepared in consultation with the traffic department. CM Fadnavis also directed that upgrade on SV Patel Road and Marine Drive be implemented as per the approved plan.
The twin tunnel, once completed, is expected to significantly reduce vehicular pollution and provide a structured boost to the city's urban mobility landscape.
Meanwhile, in a major relief to residents of MHADA colonies in Abhyudaya Nagar, the Chief Minister instructed officials to issue a fresh tender for the redevelopment project. Noting that the previous three tender calls received a lukewarm response due to unviable carpet area norms, he approved a revision in the minimum carpet area of rehabilitation flats from 635 sq ft to 620 sq ft.
Preference will now be given to developers offering more than 620 sq ft, he added.
Furthermore, CM Fadnavis directed that the three FSI index under Regulation 33(5) be granted in the form of housing stock against premium. He also assured that the government would positively consider the proposal to increase the Rs 20,000 monthly rent currently given to residents during the redevelopment phase.