Maharashtra's Coastal Road: A Game-Changer for Connectivity

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde inaugurated a significant stretch of the coastal road, linking Marine Line-Worli to Bandra Worli Sea Link (BWSL). This road aims to reduce travel time and pollution, extending in future phases to Bhayander, Virar, and Palghar, benefiting the upcoming Vadhvan port.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday inaugurated a pivotal section of the coastal road, deemed a game-changer for the state's transportation network. This new stretch connects the Marine Line-Worli coastal road to the Bandra Worli Sea Link (BWSL), greatly reducing travel time between key points in Mumbai.

In an official inspection, Shinde, along with Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, emphasized how this road would cut down travel time from 45 minutes to just 10 minutes. The coastal road, now set to extend to Bhayander, Virar, and Palghar, is crucial for the success of the Vadhvan port, one of the top 10 global ports when complete.

The project, costing around Rs 14,000 crore, has seen rapid progress under the current administration after a 25-year delay. Fadnavis highlighted that necessary permissions were expedited under Prime Minister Modi's government, allowing 90% completion of the project. The coastal road not only promises faster commutes but also aims to reduce fuel consumption and pollution.

(With inputs from agencies.)