PM Modi to inaugurate Mumbai Trans Harbour Sealink, longest sea bridge in the country, on Friday

Constructed over seven years by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the MTHL stands as the country’s longest sea bridge, designed to last a century. It features three interchanges connecting various highways and roads, projecting significant traffic growth from 39,300 passenger cars in its initial opening year to an estimated 1.03 lakh cars by 2032, as per the MMRDA’s quarterly progress report.

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation is still deliberating the rollout of bus services on the MTHL bridge. Municipal Commissioner Rajesh Narvekar told The Indian Express that given its length, how it would be useful for bus passengers was being looked into. The absence of bus stops along the bridge has also contributed to the uncertainty about bus services.

He also emphasised the need to assess passenger demand in less-densely populated areas served by two interchanges—Chirle and Ulwe—on the bridge. While toll considerations are secondary, passenger count is a primary concern for public bus services, he added. The municipal corporation operates buses to Mumbai along the Mantralaya route, primarily used by office-goers.

Similarly, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST), a part of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, has yet to finalise plans for introducing bus services on the MTHL bridge owing to uncertainties over toll payment.

The Maharashtra government has disclosed a toll of Rs 250 for one-way single-journey vehicles, with tolls for other vehicle types yet to be announced. The MMRDA quarterly project report from January to March 2023 proposed a toll of Rs 550 for buses.

Meanwhile, the cash-strapped BEST, which incurs toll charges at Mumbai’s entry points owing to its services in Navi Mumbai and the Mira Bhayander Municipal Corporation areas, wants toll-free access to the MTHL, as per sources. However, a government decision in this matter is awaited.