MMRDA Cuts Coastal Road Cost by ₹34,775 Cr - Mumbai Infrastructure Update 2025

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) announced substantial cost reductions to its ambitious coastal road project, bringing financial efficiency to one of Mumbai's most crucial infrastructure initiatives. On June 27, 2025, the development authority presented a comprehensive revised plan to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Major Cost Optimization Achieved

The authority successfully reduced the estimated project cost from INR 87,427 crore to INR 52,652 crore, representing a significant reduction of nearly INR 34,775 crore. This strategic cost optimization demonstrates the authority's commitment to making large-scale infrastructure projects financially viable while maintaining project integrity.

Strategic Design Modifications Enable Savings

The substantial savings were achieved through several key engineering modifications that MMRDA officials outlined in their presentation. The main coastal stretch configuration was revised from a 4+4 lanes plus emergency layout to a more streamlined 3+3 lanes design. Similarly, connector roads were reconfigured from 3+3 lanes plus emergency to a more cost-effective 2+2 lanes arrangement.

These narrowed carriageways significantly reduced land acquisition costs, which often represent a major portion of infrastructure project expenses. The authority also implemented simplified connector designs and reduced consultancy and provisional expenses to achieve additional cost savings.

Project Scale and Technical Specifications

The comprehensive project spans a total length of 55.12 kilometers, comprising 24.35 kilometers of main coastal road and 30.77 kilometers of connecting infrastructure. The coastal carriageway will feature a width of approximately 25.1 meters to accommodate the 3+3 lane configuration, while connector roads will have a width of approximately 18.55 meters for the 2+2 lane setup.

Comprehensive Evaluation Process

MMRDA presented six different design-cost variants to the state leadership before ultimately selecting this optimized version as the most financially viable option. This thorough evaluation process demonstrates the authority's commitment to finding the most cost-effective solution while maintaining project functionality and safety standards.

Strategic Importance for Mumbai's Development

This cost reduction of approximately 40 percent makes the project significantly more financially feasible for implementation. The coastal road connectivity enhancement remains a key component in linking Mumbai's northern suburbs with the upcoming Vadhavan Port and the Vadodara-Mumbai Expressway.

The simplified infrastructure design is expected to accelerate both approval processes and construction timelines, potentially bringing this critical connectivity project to completion sooner than originally anticipated. This development is particularly significant for Mumbai Metropolitan Region real estate growth, as improved connectivity typically drives property value appreciation in connected areas.

Impact on Regional Connectivity

The project represents a crucial element in Mumbai's broader infrastructure development strategy. The MMRDA infrastructure funding initiatives support multiple projects aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth.

Real estate experts anticipate that the project's completion will significantly influence property markets along the coastal corridor. Areas that will benefit from improved connectivity are likely to see increased investor interest and development activity, particularly in mixed-use development projects that can capitalize on enhanced accessibility.

Timeline and Implementation

With the revised cost structure approved, MMRDA is expected to proceed with detailed project implementation phases. The streamlined design approach should facilitate faster regulatory approvals and enable more efficient construction scheduling. This development builds upon previous coastal road project updates that have demonstrated the authority's commitment to completing this vital infrastructure initiative.