The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has been awarded the contract for the construction of three major infrastructure projects, propelling transport connectivity in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). With a combined investment of Rs 116,000 crores, these projects are set to revolutionize travel in the region.
The first project, the Virar-Alibaug multimodal corridor (VAMMC), is a 100km long route that will feature an eight-lane expressway. This corridor, equipped with provisions for future Metro rail connectivity, will connect various important locations such as Vasai, Bhiwandi, Kalyan, Ambernath, Panvel, Uran, and Pen.
The VAMMC will serve as a crucial link to the under-construction Navi Mumbai International Airport, JNPT Port, Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), and a dedicated freight corridor. It is estimated to reduce travel time between Virar and Alibaug by 50% and will act as a shortcut between different areas in the MMR and Goa.
The second project, the Pune Ring Road, is a 137km access-controlled expressway encircling Pune. With an investment of Rs 34,000 crores, this project will not only bring Mumbai closer to the interior parts of Pune but also provide connectivity to the talukas of Khed, Haveli, Purandar, Bhor, Mulshi, and Maval. Motorists will have the option to take the ring road to reach their destinations, avoiding traffic congestion within the city.
Lastly, the Samruddhi Extension project will connect the 500th km point near Jalna with the Nanded-Degloor National Highway in Kakandi. This project, requiring an investment of Rs 22,000 crores, will intersect with the proposed expressway passing through Jalna-Parbhani and Nanded. It is expected to enhance connectivity and facilitate smoother travel in the region.