MUMBAI: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has finalised a plan to built a 1.6km long sea-link that will connect Nariman Point to Colaba and help reduce congestion on interior roads of the central business district in south Mumbai.
Lea Associates had submitted a traffic survey report in 2005-2008 to the MMRDA in which it had recommended the construction of a bridge connecting Nariman Point to Colaba.
At present, for travelling on this route, only single-lane Captain Prakash Pethe Road is available.
As a result, a lot of traffic congestion is reported on the route on a daily basis.
An MMRDA spokesperson said, “To overcome the existing traffic problem and enable smooth travelling experience, MMRDA has planned to construct the new bridge. We have appointed a project management consultant (PMC), which will prepare a detailed project report (DPR), suggest alignment, conduct traffic survey and study about necessary permissions that need to be obtained for carrying out the project."
The PMC will also undertake the tendering process and calculate the estimated cost.
There may be hurdles too as the project is located in the high-security zone.
The sea is patrolled by the Coast Guard and the Indian Navy. Environmental clearance will be required too as there may be some reclamation involved, besides the work can endanger marine life.
Metropolitan commissioner RA Rajeev said, “The new bridge will not effect the existing livelihood of fishermen and we will take care of it. All precautionary measures will be adopted. No obstruction will be caused to the fishermen's boats due to the project work. Also, the PMC of the said project will conduct study of marine species."
The 2+2 lane connector may originate from near National Centre for the Performing Arts campus and connect Cuffe Parade.
This connector will ensure completion of an effective ring road around the Mumbai Island road.
It will also provide connectivity to Metro 3 (Colaba-Bandra-Seepz) underground corridor.