The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has made a key revision to the proposed underground tunnel project between Orange Gate and Marine Drive.
Earlier, the tunnel was planned to end near Wankhede Stadium. However, a new proposal suggests extending it further up to the PM Hindu Swimming Bath and Boat Club (Mafatlal Swimming Pool) area at Girgaon Chowpatty.
The revised proposal has been submitted to the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) for approval. The original INR 7,500 crore project had received clearance in 2024, but the modified alignment now requires fresh permission.
As per the revised plan, the tunnel’s exit is being extended northwards following suggestions from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, with the aim of reducing traffic congestion at the Queen’s Necklace stretch on Marine Drive.
Once completed, the tunnel will connect Orange Gate on Mumbai’s eastern coast to Girgaon Chowpatty on the western side, significantly improving east–west connectivity. The travel time between the two points, currently around 45 minutes, is expected to be reduced to about 5 minutes.
The project is expected to enhance connectivity between key infrastructure corridors such as the Eastern Freeway, Atal Setu, and the Coastal Road, while also easing congestion on S. V. Patel Road and improving traffic flow across South Mumbai.
An environmental impact study conducted by Larsen & Toubro in coordination with the National Institute of Oceanography has assessed factors such as water flow, sedimentation, and coastal changes, recommending necessary mitigation measures.
In the second phase, expansion plans for Marine Drive include six additional lanes (three in each direction) and a promenade extension, subject to further traffic studies and approvals.
The ambitious project is expected to significantly streamline traffic movement and improve connectivity in South Mumbai.
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