Navi Mumbai Traffic Alert: Year-Long Diversions Announced for CIDCO’s Underground Tunnel Project

The Navi Mumbai Traffic Department has announced traffic restrictions and diversions on the Sion–Panvel Highway. This is due to the launch of CIDCO's underground tunnel project between Kharghar Gurudwara and Juinagar railway station. The project aims to ease congestion by reducing travel time between Kharghar, Belapur, and Turbhe by nearly 30 minutes.

Construction for the 1.763-km Kharghar–Turbhe link road began on Thursday. The project, costing approximately Rs 2,100 crore, will cut the current 40-minute commute to just 10 minutes. This will alleviate pressure on the busy Sion–Panvel Highway.

Traffic Diversions and Restrictions

To manage traffic during construction, diversions are in place from November 20 this year until November 16 next year. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Tirupati Kakade stated that the Pune-bound service road from Sawan Knowledge Park to Delta Stellar Company in Shiravane MIDC will be one-way for all vehicles.

The underpass route from Shiravane village entrance towards MIDC will be closed entirely during this period. Vehicles from Uran Phata will be rerouted through Punyagiri MIDC, while those from internal Nerul roads must use the Sion–Panvel Highway.

Alternative Routes for Motorists

Traffic from Shiravane village can take either the Juinagar Railway Station service road or the LP Bridge service road based on their destination. Vehicles from Nerul and Shiravane may also opt for the Mumbai-bound lane of the highway as an alternative route.

"These diversions are essential to ensure smooth traffic movement and public safety during the construction period. We urge motorists to cooperate and use the designated alternative routes," said DCP Traffic Tirupati Kakade.

Exemptions for Essential Services

Essential service vehicles such as police cars, fire brigades, ambulances, and government vehicles are exempted from these restrictions. The traffic notification is effective from 00:01 hrs on November 20, 2025, until midnight on November 16, 2026.

This initiative aims to improve connectivity and reduce congestion significantly once completed. Motorists are encouraged to follow the new routes for a smoother journey during this period.