BKC Coastal Road Latest Update: New Connector To Cut Travel Time And Traffic Snarls

Starting today, traffic congestion on the busy Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) arterial road is expected to ease with the opening of a new 180-metre signal-free stretch of road between the MTNL junction and the BKC-Chunabhatti connector, according to a Hindustan Times (HT) report. This new road, which runs alongside the Mithi River, is expected to reduce travel time for commuters.

The road, constructed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), connects the central business district's G Block with the Eastern Express Highway. As a result, it is anticipated to reduce road travel time, particularly during peak hours.

The growing number of commercial spaces in BKC has led to a sharp rise in traffic, especially during the morning and evening rush hours. At present, it takes at least 30 minutes to travel just four kilometres, averaging a speed of seven to eight minutes per kilometre. This does not include the additional 15 minutes needed to enter and exit the business district.

Further contributing to the traffic woes are ongoing construction projects, including the Mumbai Metro 2B (Andheri West-BKC-Mandale) and the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train.

Currently, BKC has four major entry and exit routes: Sion-Dharavi-Kalanagar, the Santacruz-Chembur Link Road, Taximen's Colony, and the BKC-Chunabhatti connector. The BKC-Chunabhatti connector, which opened in November 2019, quickly gained popularity among motorists travelling to and from Mumbai's eastern suburbs. However, it also caused heavy traffic congestion on BKC's internal roads, particularly during peak hours, leading to the construction of a new road to ease the load.

"The new link road will connect the SEBI Building to Avenue 5 and Avenue 3 near WeWork," said an MMRDA official in the HT report. "This 180-metre, six-lane (3+3) road will allow signal-free movement, helping to reduce travel time and improve traffic flow."

Built in just six months at a cost of Rs 3.98 crore, the road is expected to improve traffic dispersal to key BKC landmarks such as the MCA Club, multiple consulates, and the MTNL junction.