The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has received a crucial approval from the forest department to utilize 35.56 hectares of forest land for constructing an underground twin-tunnel road connecting Borivali and Thane. This landmark project, passing beneath the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SNGP), promises to significantly cut travel time between the two areas.
Reduced Travel Time and Distance
Currently, traveling between Borivali and Thane takes about 90 to 120 minutes, covering 23 kilometers. Once the tunnel is operational, the commute will be slashed to just 15 minutes, with the distance reduced to 12 kilometers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the Rs 18,800-crore project on July 13.
Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation
The project requires forest land on both ends—Thane and Borivali—for tunneling operations. Additionally, it involves relocating 500 to 700 families from Borivali and residents from seven villages in Thane and one village in Borivali. The MMRDA has planned a mix of in-situ rehabilitation and relocation to transit homes, depending on availability.
Land will be acquired from areas like Manpada, Majiwada, Borivade, Yeoor, and Chene villages in Thane, as well as Magathane in Borivali. Rehabilitation of families living within SNGP was a hot topic during the recent assembly elections in the Magathane constituency.
Project Features
The twin-tunnel road will span 11.80 kilometers, complemented by a 1.60-kilometer approach road. The tunnels will feature three lanes on each side, with one lane reserved for emergencies. Advanced tunnel-boring machines (TBMs) are expected to arrive next year, as current efforts focus on land acquisition and family relocation.
The route begins at the Western Express Highway in Borivali, travels underground, and emerges at the Eastern Express Highway in Thane. The construction will proceed in three phases, including two tunnels and the installation of ventilation and safety systems.
Environmental and Sustainability Measures
To minimize environmental impact, the project employs TBMs to dig beneath SNGP, preserving its green cover. The project will also utilize 0.7 million liters of water daily, sourced from recycled sewage water, to sustain construction activities.
Timeline and Toll Charges
The ambitious project is scheduled for completion by mid-2028. Upon completion, toll charges for light vehicles are expected to be Rs 200.
Boosting Connectivity
Once finished, the Borivali-Thane Link Road will transform connectivity between Mumbai’s eastern and western suburbs, becoming a vital infrastructure milestone for the city. This project is set to reduce commute times dramatically, enhance convenience, and alleviate traffic congestion in the region.
