The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has unveiled plans to build a multi-modal vehicular tunnel network across Mumbai’s island city and suburbs in a bid to reduce congestion and improve connectivity.

As per the preliminary blueprint, six interconnecting tunnels will be constructed beneath existing roadways, forming a parallel network to ease pressure on surface traffic. The tunnels will link eastern and western suburbs and integrate with arterial roads such as the Goregaon–Mulund Link Road and the Mumbai Coastal Road (Phases 1 and 2).

Each tunnel will feature modern ventilation systems, digital signage, lighting, dedicated service lanes and access routes. BMC has invited tenders, following which a feasibility study will be conducted to determine construction methods.

The project is estimated to cost Rs 43.9 billion, with each tunnel projected at Rs 7.3 billion. “This is a significant master plan to boost connectivity in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. With vehicular density rising, alternate routes are essential to meet future demand. Tenders have been invited and we await responses from interested agencies,” said Abhijit Bangar, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects).