Mumbai Coastal Road to be Toll-Free: CM Shinde Announces Opening of First Phase After Jan 31
CM Eknath Shinde’s decision to make the Mumbai coastal road toll-free is a welcome relief for commuters and reflects the government’s commitment to providing accessible and efficient transportation solutions. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has declared that the Mumbai coastal road, linking Marine Drive with the Bandra Worli Sea Link (BWSL), will be toll-free.
This decision comes in response to concerns raised over toll collection on various infrastructure projects in the region. Additionally, CM Shinde unveiled plans for the first phase of the coastal road, with an anticipated opening after January 31, marking a milestone in Mumbai’s transportation landscape.
During a recent announcement, CM Shinde assured the public that the Mumbai coastal road would not burden commuters with toll charges. This decision follows earlier reports suggesting a proposed minimum toll of ₹250 on projects like the Mumbai Trans Harbor Link (MTHL) and the coastal road.
Chief Minister Shinde outlined the phased approach to the Mumbai coastal road’s inauguration. The initial phase, spanning from Worli to Marine Drive and encompassing the undersea tunnel is slated to conclude construction by January 31.
Subsequently the road will be opened for motorists to enjoy seamless connectivity. The remaining phase, anticipated to be completed by May 31, will mark the full operationalization of the coastal road corridor, providing a comprehensive transportation solution for Mumbai residents.
The announcement regarding toll-free access to the Mumbai coastal road is particularly noteworthy in the context of earlier reports proposing toll charges on significant projects, including the Mumbai Trans Harbor Link (MTHL).
Also known as Atal Setu, in honor of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the MTHL spans from Sewri in Mumbai to Nhava Sheva in Uran taluka, Raigad district. The construction cost of this crucial link is estimated at ₹18,000 crore, making it a vital infrastructure project for the region.
