Mumbai: The coastal road at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), a significant development aimed at providing a signal-free route alongside the Mithi River, is on track to open by the end of November, just ahead of assembly elections. This 2.2-kilometer road, constructed for Rs 4 crore, is expected to ease traffic congestion in one of Mumbai’s busiest business districts, although challenges with entering and exiting the area may continue.
Stretching from the MTNL junction to the R2 MMRDA ground near the BKC connector bridge, the project is now nearing completion. Officials from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) confirmed that groundwork has been finalised, with the next step, concreting which is set to begin shortly.
“With the monsoon season behind us, we’ll start pouring cement concrete in the coming days. After that, it will be cured for the required period to ensure the road’s durability,” an MMRDA official stated as quoted by Hindustan Times.
Road to get operation ahead of assembly elections
There is speculation that the road might open just ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, with voting scheduled in Maharashtra for November 20 and counting on November 23. The BKC area has witnessed a surge in traffic over recent years, driven by an influx of companies establishing offices in the region. Commuters often experience significant delays, with travel times for the 4-kilometer stretch within BKC averaging at least 30 minutes, not including an additional 15 minutes to enter or exit the area during peak hours.
No respite in traffic woes
Despite the construction of several flyovers, including the BKC connector to Chunabhatti and the Santacruz Chembur Link Road, traffic congestion continues to be a major issue. Additionally, ongoing work on the Mumbai Metro Line 2B, which traverses BKC, further complicates the traffic situation. This metro line aims to connect the business district with Dahisar East and Mankhurd, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced transportation infrastructure in the area.
