The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) is set to request an extended deadline for the Versova Bandra Sea Link (VBSL) project, which has faced considerable delays. An official mentioned that only 12 per cent of the work has been completed so far, prompting contractors to seek additional time. The official stated that a proposal for a new deadline will be submitted to the state for consideration. The current target for project completion is December 2026. The VBSL project entails the construction of a sea link bridge along Mumbai's West coast, connecting Bandra (south side) to Versova at Nana Nani Park (north side), with intermediate connectors at Juhu Koliwada and Otter’s Club, along with toll facilities. The approved alignment positions the VBSL Project approximately 900 meters away from the coast. The main sea link bridge spans 9.60 km with 4 + 4 lanes. Various connectors include the Bandra Connector (1.17 km, 2 + 2 lanes), Carter Road Connector (1.80 km, 3 + 3 lanes), Juhu Koliwada Connector (2.80 km, 2 + 2 lanes), and Versova Connector (1.80 km, 3 + 3 lanes). The structure will be a cable-stayed bridge with a central-navigational span of 150m + back span of 75m on either side, along with three balanced cantilever bridges, each comprising a central-navigational span of 100m + back span of 75m on either side. Apco Infratech Pvt Ltd, in collaboration with WeBuild, has taken over the responsibility for sea bridge construction, a task initially assigned to the Reliance Infra and Astaldi consortium. The official emphasised the current focus on pile concreting work in the water. Despite the absence of specific underwater training for workers, strict safety measures are in place, including using life-saving jackets and on-site lifeguards in emergencies. The project initially awarded to the Reliance Infra and Astaldi consortium in September 2018 faced delays and contractual issues, leading to a change in partnership. In January 2022, Apco Infratech and WeBuild assumed the sea link construction work control. Besides, the project was also delayed because of the need for a casting yard. The MSRDC had first proposed a casting yard in Versova. However, it was opposed by environmentalists, and the issue went up to the court. Later, the corporation rented a land parcel in Malad. In August 2022, the MSRDC provided another land in Bandra reclamation of its ownership, opposite its office for casting yard to the contractor to expedite the project work.
