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Mumbai: BMC launches Western Express Highway widening project to ease Goregaon bottleneck

#Top Stories#India#Maharashtra#Mumbai City
Last Updated : 16th Jan, 2025
Synopsis

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated a road-widening project on a 300-400 meter stretch of the Western Express Highway near Aarey Check Naka in Goregaon, aiming to alleviate long-standing traffic congestion. The expansion will increase the road width from 45 meters to 57-61 meters, requiring the removal of 300 unauthorized structures and clearing obstructed water culverts. Implemented under the "Removal of Bottleneck Policy," the project offers monetary compensation for displaced businesses and residents. Expected to be completed in three months, this initiative will enhance traffic flow along the vital highway, benefiting thousands of daily commuters and improving Mumbai's urban connectivity.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated a significant road-widening project on a busy stretch of the Western Express Highway (WEH) in Goregaon. This move aims to ease severe traffic congestion at a notorious choke point near the Aarey Check Naka, a location long plagued by bottlenecks and delays.


The project focuses on widening a 300-400 meter stretch of the highway from Mohan Gokhale Road to the Aarey Check Naka. The expansion will increase the road's width from 45 meters to approximately 57-61 meters. To achieve this, around 300 unauthorized structures, including shops, garages, and other commercial establishments, will be removed. Two water culverts, currently obstructed, will also be cleared, improving the flow of traffic on the service road adjacent to the highway.

This effort is part of BMC's 'Removal of Bottleneck Policy,' which emphasizes monetary compensation for displaced residents and businesses rather than providing alternative accommodations. A similar approach was previously adopted to widen S V Road between Goregaon and Kandivli, with many affected individuals accepting monetary settlements.

According to BMC officials, the service road adjoining Doodh Sagar Society will remain operational during the construction period to minimize disruption. A survey is also underway to identify and compensate residents affected by the project. Civic officials estimate that the widening will be completed within three months, assuming no unforeseen delays.

The issue of encroachments and congestion on this stretch has been a persistent concern for over 15 years. Local Member of Parliament (MP) Ravindra Waikar, who has consistently raised the matter in legislative discussions, welcomed the development. Waikar highlighted how tourist buses and illegal structures contribute significantly to the traffic woes in the area.

Once completed, the project is expected to drastically improve traffic flow along this vital stretch of WEH, benefiting thousands of commuters daily. The highway serves as a critical link between northern and southern parts of Mumbai, and its smooth functioning is essential for the city's overall mobility.

The initiative also underscores the importance of addressing urban infrastructure challenges in Mumbai. As the city's population grows, ensuring seamless transport connectivity will remain a priority for authorities. With this project, the BMC aims to set a precedent for similar efforts in other congested areas of the city.

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