The Maharastra State Road Development Corporation has requested bids from contractors to build a section measuring 96.41 kilometres within the 126-kilometre Virar-Alibaug-Multi-Modal Corridor. This corridor, which will integrate both a highway and metro network, aims to connect Navghar on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway in Thane with Balavali in Raigad. It will traverse through Palghar, Thane, and Raigad districts.
Funding and Costing
The Maharastra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) aims to finish this ambitious project within approximately three years, based on the current plan. The Maharashtra Government is engaged in discussions with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to secure funding for the infrastructure.
As stated by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the corridor is set to be operational in two phases. The first phase will span 79 kilometres, stretching from Navghar to Chirner near JNPT. The estimated cost for the initial phase is Rs 10,000 Cr. The second phase will cover approximately 47 kilometres, extending from Chirner to Alibaug.
How Virar Alibaug Corridor Will Change MMR?
There are a few important aspects about the same mentioned below:
- The project guarantees enhanced connectivity between the city and significant national highways, including NH8 (Delhi-Mumbai), NH3 (Agra-Delhi), NH4 (Pune-Bangalore), NH4B (JNPT), and the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. This will result in faster and more convenient access to the city from these key transportation routes.
- The initiative will improve connectivity with major upcoming projects such as the Navi Mumbai International Airport, Revas Port, Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, and the Dedicated Freight Corridor. This will create better links and accessibility between these significant developments and the surrounding areas.
- Within the corridor, several growth centres will be established, transforming Virar, Bhiwandi, Kalyan, Dombivali, Panvel, Taloja, and Uran into satellite cities.
- This development will involve strategic planning and infrastructure improvements in these areas, fostering their growth and urban expansion.
- After the road is completed, the travel time between Virar and Alibaug will be reduced by half.
- The road will play a crucial role in facilitating the development of a mega township within the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area. It will provide essential connectivity and accessibility, contributing to the growth and progress of the township. The road’s presence will enhance transportation options and support the overall development and prosperity of the area.
Estimated Project Cost
The estimated project cost currently stands at Rs 55,564 Cr.
Wrapping Up
To conclude, the Maharastra State Road Development Corporation has called for bids to construct a 96.41-kilometre segment of the Virar-Alibaug-Multi-Modal Corridor. This corridor will link Navghar and Balavali, passing through Palghar, Thane, and Raigad districts. It will improve connectivity with national highways, facilitate upcoming projects, establish growth centres, reduce travel time, support the development of a mega township, and contribute to regional prosperity. The estimated project cost is Rs 55,564 Cr.
