The Maharashtra government has approved Phase One of the Uttan-Virar Sea Link (UVSL), a coastal corridor project designed to improve connectivity and drive regional development in North Mumbai. Approved at the one hundred fifty-ninth meetings of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the project is set to ease congestion and reduce travel time between Uttan, Vasai and Virar.

Phase One spans 55.12 kilometres, comprising a 24.35 km sea link and approach roads from Uttan (9.32 kilometres), Vasai (2.5 kilometres) and Virar (18.95 kilometres). 

Advanced engineering features like re-aligned ramps, tunnelling and OSD conversion spans—previously used in projects like Mumbai Trans Harbour Link and Atal Setu—will ensure long-term durability.

The estimated cost is around Rs 874.27 Bn, funded via a hybrid model: seventy-two per cent from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and twenty-eight per cent from the Maharashtra government and MMRDA.

Expected benefits include smoother commutes, real estate and industrial growth, and improved emergency response. The project will also connect to major expressways, including the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, enhancing intercity mobility.

Source:The Indian Express