Eastern Express Highway Makeover Begins: Elevated Road From Chheda Nagar To Mulund East Underway

The construction of a 13.40-kilometre-long elevated road from Chheda Nagar in Ghatkopar to Anand Nagar in Mulund East on the Eastern Express Highway (EEH) has officially started, according to a mid-day report. The project, which will cost Rs 3,314.40 crore, aims to improve connectivity and ease travel along this busy stretch in eastern Mumbai.

The elevated road will have three lanes in both directions. It will include entry and exit points at Chheda Nagar, Kanjurmarg, Airoli Bridge, and the Mulund Octroi Naka. The contractor in charge is expected to complete the construction within four years, by December 2028. They will also be responsible for correcting any defects for an additional two years after completion.

Photo Credit: PTI

Currently, preliminary work is underway. When this reporter recently travelled between Kanjurmarg East and the Mulund octroi naka, barricades had already been placed in some parts of the highway. Soil testing work was in progress, marking the beginning of the geotechnical investigation.

An official from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) said, "Barricades have been placed on the Eastern Express Highway so geotechnical investigation can be carried out. At present, the procedure is taking place between the Airoli flyover and Vikhroli. Subsequently, it will be extended up to Chheda Nagar."

The geotechnical investigation involves boring into the ground to collect soil data. This data is crucial for designing the foundation and overall structure of the elevated road. Once this process is complete, the actual construction work on the foundation will begin.

While the elevated road is expected to ease congestion in the long term, motorists may experience traffic slowdowns during peak hours as the construction progresses. The central divider of the road will be barricaded to carry out the work safely.

The entire project is part of the larger efforts to upgrade road infrastructure across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.