In a strategic move to ease congestion and enhance travel efficiency, the Maharashtra State Government is planning a new 20-km, eight-lane access-controlled highway to improve connectivity between Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Badlapur. Spearheaded by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), this ambitious project aims to significantly cut down travel times while catering to the rapidly growing population in the region.
The sub-regions of Badlapur, Ambernath, Ulhasnagar, Kalyan, and Dombivli have witnessed exponential population growth, leading to heavy congestion on existing road networks. With the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport poised to become a major transport hub, seamless connectivity to these expanding urban centers has become a pressing necessity. The proposed highway seeks to address this by offering fast and efficient access between these key areas.
The planned access-controlled highway is designed for speeds of up to 80 kmph and will feature major interchanges at crucial junctions, including the Mumbai-Vadodara Spur, Badlapur, and Hedutane (Kalyan). Additionally, it will connect to the proposed Kalyan Ring Road (KRR), enhancing regional accessibility. The highway will also integrate with two upcoming metro lines – the Kanjurmarg-Badlapur Metro and the Kalyan-Taloja Metro – ensuring a multi-modal transport network that caters to the future needs of commuters.
The 20-km highway will feature an eight-lane carriageway with provisions for future expansion, including reserved land in the median. Service roads and connectors will be built to ensure access to adjacent towns and cities, enhancing local mobility. The project will also include a 3-km-long tunnel, adding to its engineering complexity. An estimated 178 hectare of land will be required for the development, with the overall cost projected at approximately Rs 10,000 crore.
Currently in the early stages of planning, the project will undergo a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to assess its technical, economic, and financial viability. The DPR will evaluate crucial aspects such as land acquisition, environmental impact, and social feasibility. MMRDA is expected to engage a consultant to prepare this report, paving the way for a comprehensive execution plan.
Once completed, the highway is anticipated to revolutionize travel within the region. Commuters from Badlapur, Ulhasnagar, and the Kalyan-Dombivli belt will be able to reach south and central Mumbai in just 60 minutes, while Navi Mumbai, including the international airport, will be accessible within 30 minutes. This enhanced connectivity is expected to catalyze regional growth and urban development, making the highway a pivotal infrastructure upgrade.
The Maharashtra Government’s continued focus on infrastructure development is evident from its successful implementation of seamless connectivity along Mumbai’s western waterfront through the Coastal Road and various sea links. The proposed Badlapur multi-modal corridor is a strategic extension of this vision, aimed at addressing the connectivity gaps in the eastern corridors.
With its strategic location and integration with upcoming metro lines, the new highway is set to redefine urban commuting in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. As the project moves from the planning to the execution phase, it promises to not only decongest existing roads but also bolster connectivity to Navi Mumbai’s rapidly developing international airport. The Maharashtra government’s focus on enhancing transport infrastructure is poised to transform the region’s travel landscape, driving economic growth and urban expansion.