Thane’s Highway expansion: 10 underpasses to ease traffic from Bhiwandi’s warehouses

A Network of Underpasses

The project’s centerpiece is its ten vehicular underpasses, designed to bypass choke points and streamline movement. These underpasses, located at Walshin, Sonale, Kharegaon, Yewali Flyover, Saravali, Pimplas, Ovali, Mankoli Motagaon, Dive Gaon near the Petrol Pump, and Dive, span a total approach road length of 8 km. Slated for completion by May, they are expected to significantly reduce congestion.

The project also includes the construction of three major bridges and a flyover namely Kasheli Creek Bridge ( 817.5 meters), Kalwa Creek Bridge (199 meters) , Vadpe Flyover (320 meters) and Railway Bridge (84.15 meters).

Complementing this expansion is the nearing completion of the final 76-km stretch of the 701-km Samruddhi Mahamarg, connecting Igatpuri to Thane. This stretch includes a vital 4.2-km spur linking the expressway to the under-construction Mumbai-Vadodara Expressway. Scheduled for completion by January end, the spur promises to drastically cut travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur.

The construction of this spur is an engineering feat, with a six-story-high slope requiring controlled blasting to level the terrain. Over 98% complete, this connection will integrate with the existing Old Mumbai-Nashik Highway, further enhancing connectivity.

Beyond reducing travel time, the Samruddhi Mahamarg and the Vadpe-Majiwada expansion are set to catalyse economic activity. “The high-speed design and planned wayside amenities will improve convenience for commuters and encourage economic growth along the route,” said an MSRDC official.