The Maharashtra cabinet recently approved the construction of a 25-kilometre elevated road connecting Thane to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.Alongside this project, the cabinet also cleared extensions to the Pune and Nagpur Metro lines, new stations in Pune, and plans for an international business hub in Nagpur. Several policies concerning energy and tribal development were also passed during the meeting.The Thane–NMIA Elevated RoadThe six-lane elevated road, stretching 25 kilometres, will connect Thane and Mira-Bhayander to the airport. Built at an estimated cost of Rs 6.43 billion by the City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra Limited (CIDCO), the road will feature six interchanges and is expected to cut travel time from 90 minutes to 30 minutes, offering faster access and reducing congestion on existing routes.The Atal SetuThe Atal Setu, also known as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), is a key infrastructure project connecting Mumbai to Navi Mumbai by spanning approximately 22 kilometres across the Mumbai Harbour. The route starts from Sewri in South Mumbai and stretches eastward over the sea to Nhava in Navi Mumbai.The sea bridge eases congestion on the Vashi and Airoli bridges and facilitates quicker access to major areas of Navi Mumbai, including NMIA, via connecting roads and highways. It plays a vital role in improving connectivity between Mumbai’s island city and the expanding satellite city.As of January 2025, a concessional toll of Rs 250 is applicable for four-wheelers on the Atal Setu for both one-way and return journeys. A return toll of Rs 125 applies if the return trip is completed within 12 hours. Electric vehicles, including electric cars and buses, are exempt from toll charges on the Atal Setu for the next five years as part of Maharashtra’s sustainable transport initiative.Thane–NMIA Elevated Road: Toll RateThe newly approved elevated road is expected to ease access to NMIA, with a one-way toll of Rs 365, according to reports. The airport is projected to handle 2 million passengers annually in its initial phase and up to 9 million by 2038. Authorities believe that saving travel time and reducing congestion will benefit millions of commuters over the long term, despite the higher toll cost.Beyond providing convenience to travellers, the elevated road is expected to support economic growth in the region. Enhanced airport connectivity is likely to attract businesses, boost real estate development, and generate new job opportunities.