Uttan-Virar Sea Link Now ₹52,652 Cr, Faster Completion Ahead

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has significantly reduced the estimated cost of the ambitious Uttan-Virar sea link project—from ₹87,427 crore to ₹52,652 crore—following a detailed engineering reassessment. This cost optimization marks a savings of nearly ₹35,000 crore and aims to accelerate progress on the 55.1-km corridor designed to enhance connectivity between Mumbai’s western suburbs, the upcoming Vadhavan Port, and the Vadodara-Mumbai Expressway.

Key revisions contributing to the cost reduction include optimizing the lane configuration from 4+4 lanes with an emergency lane to a more efficient 3+3 design. Connector arms were scaled down from 3+3+emergency lanes to 2+2 lanes. Additional savings came from switching from twin-pillar to single-pillar bridge structures, narrowing the right of way, and reducing land acquisition requirements.

The revised proposal was recently presented to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. CM Fadnavis highlighted the project as a “critical infrastructure connector” poised to unlock significant trade and logistics potential in the region.

The project’s funding model includes ₹37,998 crore (72.2%) through loans—likely from JICA or other multilateral institutions—secured against future toll revenues. The remaining ₹14,654 crore (27.8%) will come as equity contributions from the state government and MMRDA. A revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) and a proposed Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) are expected to streamline implementation.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.