Thane Coastal Road Linking Balkum To Gaimukh Slated To Be Completed By 2028

Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar recently announced that the Thane coastal road project, spanning 13.45 km from Balkum to Gaimukh, is scheduled for completion by May 2028.

The Rs 3,364 crore road project, originating from Kharegaon Toll Naka on Mumbai Nashik Highway (NH-3) and terminating near Gaimukh at Ghodbunder State Highway (SH-42), is strategically positioned to enhance connectivity and support the Virar-Alibaug Multimodal Corridor, according to Times Of India report.

Currently, Kharegaon and Kopri in Thane lack a direct road connection, necessitating a detour of over 30 minutes for commuters. However, the new coastal road promises to slash travel times to just 15 to 20 minutes, greatly benefiting local residents.

The project will feature an elevated 6.3 km road with six lanes, facilitating smoother traffic flow towards Gujarat, Nashik, Bhiwandi, and northern India, providing a crucial alternative route to ease congestion on existing highways.

The project is executed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).

The first costal road project between Anand Nagar and Saket received clearance last year. This project is expected to alleviate congestion on Thane's existing roadways and provide a direct link for traffic from Samruddhi Mahamarg and Mumbai Nashik highways.

Additionally, three bridges are slated for construction over Thane creek, connecting Gaimukh to Paiyegaon, Kasarvadavali to Kharbao, and Kolshet to Kalher, with an estimated cost of Rs 1,698 crore. These bridges will further enhance regional connectivity and support the growing transportation needs of Thane's expanding population.