Our goal is to make commuting in Mumbai easy, efficient and sustainable.
Dr Sanjay Mukherjee
How do you view the overall infrastructure developments happening in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR)?
MMR is undergoing a transformative phase, as it's being witnessing significant infrastructure development in recent years, aimed at addressing the region's growing population and increasing urbanisation, with projects ranging from Bridges, Flyovers, Tunnels, Highways, Sea-Links and Metro corridors to facilitate connectivity in the region. This infrastructure development not only enhances connectivity and accessibility but also boosts economic growth and enhances the quality of life for residents. Improving connectivity in remote and rural areas of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region is essential for fostering inclusive development across various sectors such as social, economic, cultural, tourism, real estate, and industrial. Enhanced infrastructure facilitates equal opportunities for growth and prosperity, reducing travel time and transportation costs for individuals and businesses alike. This not only boosts productivity but also enhances the affordability of goods and services, paving the way for overall development and prosperity in the region.
However, challenges such as funding constraints, land acquisition issues, and environmental concerns persist, requiring careful planning and execution. Despite these challenges, the ongoing infrastructure projects in the MMR region signify a promising future for one of India's most dynamic and fastest growing metropolitan areas.
MMR has been witnessing a series of infrastructure developments currently. How is MMRDA taking a lead role in these developments?
MMRDA is playing a pivotal role in spearheading the ongoing infrastructure developments in MMR and improving the region's quality of life. Our goal is to make commuting in Mumbai easy, efficient and sustainable. As the primary planning and implementing agency for infrastructure projects in the region, MMRDA is taking proactive measures to address the growing needs of the growing population and urbanisation challenges. By initiating and executing projects such as Mumbai Metro Rail project, MTHL, various bridges, cement concrete roads, Surya regional water supply scheme, and growth centres, we are ensuring comprehensive and sustainable development across the region. Our strategic planning, efficient project management, and collaboration with various stakeholders demonstrate our commitment to enhancing the livability and economic potential of the MMR.
Can you give us an overview of the major infra projects under execution and in the pipeline?
We are committed to undertaking sustainable and accountable infrastructure development projects in MMR. The MMRDA has made transportation a priority and has undertaken several significant infrastructure projects. We are developing 14 Metro corridors out of which three are operational now. Sewri- Worli elevated corridor, Airoli-Katai Naka tunnel-cum-elevated road, Motagaon-Mankoli creek bridge as well as several bridges are under the extended MUIP and OARDS scheme. Our aim is to create an efficient transportation system that meets the needs of the growing population by maintaining environmentally sustainable.
Some of the notable projects in the pipeline include the Versova-Virar Sea Link, which will provide a crucial link between Versova and Virar reducing travel time significantly. The Thane-Borivali understand twin-tube Tunnel route will feature an 11.8-km-long connecting road with two 10.25 km-long three 7-lane tunnels built beneath the National Park, running from Tikuji-Ni-Wadi in Thane to the Western Express Highway (WEH) in Borivali.
Also, the twin-tube underground tunnel between Orange Gate to Marine Drive will enhance connectivity in the coastal areas. The Thane Coastal Road project is also being considered to improve the coastal connectivity and provide a convenient route for commuters and the extension of Eastern Freeway up to Thane, which will provide a much-needed boost to transportation infrastructure in the area.
Ultimately, our goal is to make commuting in Mumbai Metropolitan Region easy, efficient, and sustainable, benefiting the entire community. These projects aim to further enhance connectivity and infrastructure in the region.
With these infrastructure projects, we have made plan to develop various growth centres in the region, which include two growth centres and three industrial growth centres.
What are the new technologies and practices being adopted to improve the quality and sustainability in project execution?
MMRDA is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the citizens of the MMR through a range of distinctive projects. With a focus on cutting-edge technology, MMRDA is committed to crafting sustainable and eco-friendly infrastructure with minimal disturbance to the environment and existing infrastructure.
The infrastructure development industry is experiencing a profound transformation with the integration of new technologies. MMRDA has been developing projects in MMR in sustainable manner. We have used very advance technology in our newly commissioned Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu as well as Airoli-Katai Naka project, metro rail corridors etc. We have used Reverse Circulation Drilling (RCD) piling and Orthotropic Steel Deck (OSD) bridge spans, in Atal Setu.
The tunnelling work of the Parsik tunnels was done by New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM) which is controlled blasting technology. Tunnelling for Surya project is done by using TBM. We are also going to use TBM for our upcoming Thane-Borivali and Orange Gate-Marine Drive underground twin-tunnel projects. While TBM technology may be costlier than conventional methods, we're embracing it to prioritise environmental conservation.
These demonstrates our dedication to minimising environmental impact and maximising efficiency in construction across the MMR region.
What is your vision on MMRDA’s role in Maharashtra’s infrastructure development and in turn, India’s overall economic growth?
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region sets the benchmark for infrastructure development across the state of Maharashtra as it is proudly heading towards the achievement of a trillion-dollar economy. At MMRDA, our goal is to lead the MMR in the right direction that ensures its sustainable future through innovation and intuitive incorporation of technological advancements. Thus, we embrace a multi-dimensional vision that integrates sustainability and infrastructure development to deliver the promise of sustainable growth. In particular, MMRDA is keenly focused on rebooting and reshaping the MMR into a futuristic metropolis. Several infrastructure projects are seamlessly integrated to ensure convenient travel between the five districts of the MMR. Especially, the 337-km long metro network will be the world’s largest metro network, elevating connectivity within the MMR to monumental heights. Also, a brand-new town with immense new possibilities for business and economic development will be developed by MMRDA with Atal Setu at the landing point. We have also incorporated the noble pursuit of establishing new growth centres into our elaborate vision for the future of MMR. The Government of Maharashtra and MMRDA work hand-in-hand to conceive and valiantly pursue these innovative endeavours that can redefine transportation and infrastructure in and around the MMR. Thus, it is crystal clear that MMRDA’s consistent strides towards infrastructure development are setting the stage for the glorious future of the MMR that will not only redefine the economy of the state but also make a remarkable contribution to our nation’s economic growth.
