The inauguration of several major transport and infrastructure projects in Mumbai has been delayed after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22. The projects were expected to be opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 1.
The major affected projects are:
1. The Igatpuri-to-Thane stretch of the Samruddhi Mahamarg Expressway.
2. The new Mumbai-bound lane of the Thane Creek Bridge.
3. A portion of Mumbai Metro Line 3, from Bandra Kurla Complex to Acharya Atre Chowk.
4. Renovated homes in BDD Chawl, Worli.
A public event was planned at BKC to mark the inauguration. After the terror incident, the event was called off. The Chief Minister and his deputies are now planning either a joint event or small gatherings. The decision will depend on security updates and the Prime Minister’s new schedule.
These delays are expected to affect many people in the city. Daily commuters who travel through busy areas like BKC, Worli, and Mahalaxmi will face continued delays. They will have to keep using crowded local trains and slow road traffic.
People who travel between Nagpur and Mumbai will have longer journey times due to the delayed expressway segment. Transport companies and truck drivers will be affected. The delay also slows development and connectivity in Thane, Igatpuri, and Nashik.
The postponed opening of the Thane Creek Bridge’s new lane means continued traffic jams for people travelling from Thane and Navi Mumbai to Mumbai. The formal handover has been postponed for the residents of BDD Chawl in Worli who were waiting to move into their new homes.