Mumbai’s long-awaited northbound SCLR extension is finally on the verge of opening, promising a smoother ride for thousands of motorists and faster access to the airport. After years of delays and civil work complexities, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has completed all major construction on the Rs 650-crore Santacruz-Chembur Link Road flyover extension, an ambitious structure that passes over the Western Express Highway (WEH) and the Kalina-Vakola flyover.

An MMRDA official said, “MMRDA has successfully completed major civil works, including street lighting, resurfacing of the road, and load testing of the SCLR Phase-I extension passing over the WEH. Currently, the final phase, comprising painting, finishing touches, and removal of temporary staging structures, is underway. These steps are essential to ensure the long-term safety, durability, and aesthetics of the structure. MMRDA is committed to completing this work at the earliest and opening the flyover to the public very soon. We appreciate citizens’ patience as we work to deliver a safe and high-quality infrastructure asset for the city.”

Sources close to the development told mid-day that intermittent rains have delayed some finishing activities like painting, which can only be carried out during dry spells. However, if rainfall remains scattered, the extension may open before the end of August, possibly even on Independence Day. On July 27, MMRDA tweeted via its official X account: