Uttan-Virar Sea Link Phase 1 approved, set to transform connectivity in North Mumbai region
The Maharashtra government has approved Phase 1 of the Uttan-Virar Sea Link (UVSL) project that is intended to ease road congestion, lower travel time, and unleash the untapped economic potential of areas like Uttan, Vasai and Virar on the outskirts of Mumbai.
The project, which is said to be 'a game-changer for connectivity and economic development in the northern suburbs', was cleared at the 159th Authority Meeting of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), chaired by Deputy Chief Minister and authority chairman Eknath Shinde, last month. The approval was announced on Friday.
Spearheaded by the MMRDA, the UVSL project envisages a high-speed, eight-lane, north-south corridor along the coast that will create direct connectivity between the northern suburbs of Mumbai and key expressways. It is also expected to help manage pressure on arterial roads like Western Express Highway, S V Road and Link Road. It will also act as an arterial link to the Delhi -Mumbai Expressway, enabling seamless intercity traffic and boosting regional integration.
The UVSL, initially planned as the Versova-Virar Sea Link by the Maharashtra State Roads Development Corporation (MSRDC), was handed over to MMRDA in 2022. Later, it was restructured into two phases – Phase 1 from Uttan to Virar, now ready to be launched, and Phase 2 from Virar to Palghar, under feasibility study.
According to MMRDA officials, the segment from Versova to Uttan was reconsidered to prevent duplication with BMC's North Coastal Road Project.
The UVSL Phase 1 will stretch for 55.12 km, including the sea link and its three approach roads. (Express Photo)
Besides the better traffic flow, UVSL will also be an important economic activity driver that connects residential, commercial and industrial clusters more efficiently. It is expected to spur the development of new industrial and real estate hubs, attract private investment and generate employment both during its construction and when in operation.
Shinde called the sea link transformational, and said, 'With this connectivity, we are joining the important districts of MMR — Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar like never before. This project will not only ease the traffic but also enhance economic prospects and bring the region together, really realising our vision of 'One MMR, One Growth Story'.'
Emergency responders, like ambulances and disaster response teams, will also benefit from faster access along the upgraded corridor, enhancing public safety outcomes.
The UVSL Phase 1 will stretch for 55.12 km, including the sea link and its three approach roads. The main sea link between Uttan and Virar will stretch for 24.35 km, and the connecting roads of Uttan (9.32 km), Vasai (2.5 km), and Virar (18.95 km) will bring neighbouring localities into the corridor.
The new layout includes several infrastructure enhancements like re-aligned ramps, tunnelling, and OSD conversion spans – technologies used in other marquee ventures like Mumbai Trans Harbour Link and Atal Setu. These design elements will improve seismic strength and long-term durability.
The total cost of the project is estimated to be around Rs 87,427 crore. It will be financed through a hybrid model where 72 per cent of the funds will be provided by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the remaining 28 per cent by the Maharashtra government and MMRDA.
'By the UVSL, we not only bridge gaps but also change lives. The vital corridor will connect Virar to Mumbai within minutes, allowing for smoother day-to-day commutes, faster access to workplaces, and punctual travel even during medical emergencies,' MMRDA Commissioner Sanjay Mukherjee said.
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