The Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has greenlit a crucial infrastructure project, allocating Rs 6,602 crore rupees for the construction of two tunnels beneath the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. These tunnels, linking Goregaon to Mulund, are set to alleviate transportation challenges. The project, delayed by technical issues and the pandemic, is expected to take five years and will include maintenance for a decade. The tunnels will have cross passages for emergencies, a footpath, and water main relocation near an eco-sensitive zone. It will improve connectivity between eastern and western suburbs, providing a direct route to Navi Mumbai.
The Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has approved a major infrastructure project to build two tunnels spanning a distance of 4.7 kilometres beneath the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, connecting Goregaon to Khindipada in Mulund. These tunnels, with a diameter of 13 meters, will be a crucial transportation link in the city.
The total budget for this project is Rs 6,602 crore rupees. Of this budget, a substantial portion, amounting to Rs 6,301 crore rupees, will be allocated for the actual construction work, ensuring that the tunnels are built to high standards. Additionally, 132 crore rupees will be spent on renting a casting yard which will be situated 25 kilometres away from the project site in an eco-sensitive area.
Proper disposal of debris generated during construction will account for 169 crore rupees. Despite facing delays in the tendering process due to technical issues and the impact of the pandemic, BMC is eager to commence work on these tunnels as soon as possible. The construction is expected to take five years to complete, and the contract also includes a provision for the maintenance of the tunnels for a decade.
To execute this ambitious project, BMC has chosen a joint venture involving J Kumar Infra Project and Nagarjuna Construction Company as the contractors. The two tunnels will be situated 15 meters apart and connected by cross passages every 300 meters. These cross passages will serve as emergency exits and help manage traffic congestion in case of unforeseen situations.
Furthermore, a footpath will be incorporated into the tunnel design to enhance accessibility. Of the total tunnel length, 4.25 kilometres will pass under the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, while the remaining 0.45 kilometres will run beneath the eco-sensitive zone. The project will necessitate the relocation of 1,800 millimetres of water mains, as the BMC's largest water purification plant in Bhandup is in the vicinity.
This infrastructure development is of significant importance as it will create a vital link road connecting the eastern and western suburbs of Mumbai. It will also provide a direct route to Navi Mumbai from the western suburbs, improving connectivity and transportation options in the city. The BMC is committed to ensuring the successful completion of this project, which is expected to benefit residents and commuters alike.