Uttan-Virar Sea Link: MMRDA approves revised Phase-1 proposal for Rs 87,427 cr

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority MMRDA has fasttracked the implementation of the Phase1 works of the transformative UttanVirar Sea Link UVSL project With a sharp focus on unlocking regional economic potential improving mobility and enhancing quality of life the project is poised to bring wideranging benefits to the northern Mumbai Metropolitan Region MMRThe project is being carried out under the leadership of Chief Minister CM Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde and is spearheaded by Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Sanjay MukherjeeFollowing a comprehensive review during the 159th Authority Meeting chaired by Shinde the revised Phase1 proposal was approved at a cost of Rs 8742717 crore based on a thorough evaluation of technical and financial aspectsThis project is a monumental leap forward in the development of Maharashtrarsquos infrastructure It reflects our commitment to creating better connectivity for all while stimulating economic growth and ensuring environmental sustainability in Mumbai The UttanVirar Sea Link will pave the way for a brighter more connected future for our region stated FadnavisShinde said that the project is a ldquoshining example of the governmentrsquos commitment to balanced regional developmentrdquoldquoWith this transformative link we are connecting key districtsmdashMumbai Mumbai Suburban Thane and Palgharmdashlike never before This project will not only ease travel but also boost economic opportunities enhance emergency access and bring the entire region closer truly fulfilling the vision of lsquoOne MMR One Growth Storyrsquo the Deputy CM saidOriginally conceptualised as the VersovaVirar Sea Link VVSL under Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation MSRDC the project was transferred to MMRDA in October 2022 during the 153rd Authority MeetingPhase1 Uttan to Virar has been approved for immediate implementation while Phase2 Virar to Palghar is currently undergoing feasibility studies The Versova to Uttan stretch has been excluded from the current scope owing to overlaps with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporationrsquos BMC North Coastal Road ProjectBenefits Seamless highspeed connectivity The UVSL will establish a highspeed eightlane northsouth corridor within MMR connecting to the DelhiMumbai Expressway This corridor is expected to become a key access controlled road facilitating swift intercity transitDecongestion and pollution reduction By relieving pressure on existing arterial roads such as the Western Express Highway SV Road and Link Road UVSL will significantly ease traffic congestion This will result in enhanced road safety lower travel times and lead to a noticeable decrease in noise and air pollutionmdashultimately uplifting the quality of life for residentsEconomic integration and access The sea link will streamline transportation and improve access to residential commercial and industrial zones It will also foster stronger economic integration between Maharashtra and neighbouring states by connecting logistical hubs and enabling smoother movement of goods and peopleAttracting investment With enhanced infrastructure the UVSL is expected to attract substantial investments paving the way for the development of industrial clusters and commercial centres This will contribute to sustainable and balanced regional economic growthJob creation and economic empowerment The construction and operational phases of the project will generate extensive employment opportunities both directly and indirectly This surge in job creation will uplift income levels among local populations promoting economic freedom and longterm stabilityFaster emergency response The improved road infrastructure will drastically cut down emergency response times for ambulances fire brigades and disaster management servicesmdashthus strengthening public safety frameworksReal estate appreciation Improved connectivity and upgraded infrastructure will likely lead to an increase in property values triggering new real estate developments and boosting local municipal revenuesEnvironmental sustainability Designed with sustainability in mind the project aims to minimise its ecological footprint by reducing vehicle emissions and incorporating ecoconscious construction practicesTourism and cultural exchange The UVSL will enhance accessibility to scenic coastal regions thereby boosting tourism and encouraging greater cultural and economic exchangeTechnical details of UVSL Phase1The total length of Phase1 inclusive of the sea link and connecting roads spans 5512 km comprisingUttan to Virar Sea Link 2435 kmUttan Connecting Road 932 kmVasai Connecting Road 25 kmVirar Connecting Road 1895 kmInfrastructure upgrades and design enhancementsTo maximise its benefits the revised UVSL Phase1 features several major enhancementsCorridor realignment and new ramps Strategically realigned to reduce land acquisition challenges improve integration with existing infrastructure and add vital access ramps connecting key residential and industrial hubsSpan technology upgrade Adoption of insitu Orthotropic Steel Deck OSD spans for enhanced durability and seismic resistancemdashsimilar to Mumbai TransHarbour Link MTHL and Atal SetuGeotechnical improvements Inclusion of deeper foundations 30ndash35 metres to support longterm structural stabilityThe upgraded project involves following revised structural changesStructural design and constructionTunnel works and Uttan road upgradesUttan and Virar connector realignmentITS amp safety systemsFunding modelThe financial framework comprises 72 per cent external aid from the Japan International Cooperation Agency JICA and 28 per cent funding from the Government of MaharashtraMMRDA making it a model of international cooperation and state partnershipWith the UttanndashVirar Sea Link UVSL we are not just bridging distancesmdashwe are transforming lives This vital corridor will connect Virar to Mumbai in mere minutes enabling smoother daily commutes faster access to workplaces and timely travel even in medical emergencies Itrsquos a leap toward a more inclusive connected and resilient Mumbai Metropolitan Region said Dr MukherjeeatOptionskeyd0ddb8ef8f1a62a8cdd22fac27fc5ea7formatiframeheight90width728params