Commuting between South Mumbai and the northern suburbs is set to become much easier in the coming years. Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that once the new Dahisar-Bhayander highway
is completed, the journey from Nariman Point to Mira-Bhayander will take just 30 minutes.
This major development follows the transfer of 53.17 acres of salt land by the Union Salt Commissioner to the Maharashtra government, removing one of the biggest hurdles in the project. Officials say this long-awaited handover clears the way for construction to finally begin.
Project Finally Gets Clearance
“The coastal road dream is now much closer to becoming a reality,” Sarnaik said, as quoted by The Free Press Journal, highlighting that the project has been stuck for years due to land issues. With the approval now in place, work will begin on a 60-metre-wide road that will connect Dahisar and Bhayander and further extend to Vasai-Virar.
The highway is part of the larger Mumbai Coastal Road network. Once ready, it will link Nariman Point directly to Uttan and Mira Road through the new Dahisar-Bhayander route, providing faster access between South Mumbai and the northern suburbs.
Cost And Construction Details
The project will reportedly be executed by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) at an estimated cost of Rs 3,000 crore. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will fully fund the construction, which is expected to be completed within the next three years.
Initially, the coastal road plan included a shoreline alignment stretching from Uttan to Virar. However, this proposal faced strong opposition from local fishing communities, who feared the impact on their livelihoods.
Revised Plan for Balance
To address these concerns, the government has altered the route. The new alignment will run further inland, passing through Dahisar, Mira-Bhayander, and continuing towards Vasai and Virar. As per The Free Press Journal, Sarnaik said this decision balances development with respect for traditional occupations, making it a “win-win for all stakeholders.”
Officials believe the project will transform Mira-Bhayander into a key suburban hub with direct access to South Mumbai. Faster travel is also expected to boost growth in Vasai and Virar, making them more connected to the city’s economic and business centres.
