22-Km long, India’s longest sea bridge on Thane Creek set to cut travel time

Mumbai: Mumbai, often grappling with heavy traffic congestion, is on the brink of a transportation revolution as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), the longest sea bridge in India, nears its inauguration. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to open this engineering marvel on January 12, Mumbaikars can anticipate significant reductions in travel time and enhanced connectivity.

Here’s How Mumbai Trans Harbour Link Will Help Mumbaikars Save Travel Time

1. Reduced Travel Time:

   - The MTHL will span 21.8 kilometers, commencing from Sewri in south Mumbai and terminating at Nhava Sheva in Raigad district.

   - Commuters between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai are poised to benefit immensely, with travel time expected to shrink from the current two hours to a mere 15-20 minutes.

2. Savings during Peak Hours:

   - Motorists traveling from south Mumbai to key destinations like the New Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA) and the Mumbai-Pune Expressway can expect savings of approximately 30-45 minutes during peak hours.

   - The traditional routes via Eastern Freeway and Sion-Panvel highway will be outclassed by the MTHL's efficiency.

3. Connectivity to Proposed Cities:

   - The MTHL will link Third Mumbai, the proposed city around Navi Mumbai International Airport, fostering faster and smoother connectivity to burgeoning urban centers.

4. Economic Development:

   - Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde highlighted the economic growth potential associated with the MTHL, emphasizing the development and progress it will bring to the connected areas.

5. Key Connections:

   - The bridge will not only connect Navi Mumbai to Mumbai but also establish crucial links with the Navi Mumbai International Airport, JNPT Port, Mumbai-Pune Expressway, and Mumbai-Goa Highway.

6. World's Longest Sea Bridge:

   - Stretched over approximately 22 kilometers, with a sea expanse of 16.5 kilometers, the MTHL is set to become the world's longest sea bridge.

   - Utilizing an innovative Orthotropic Steel Deck construction method, the bridge ensures durability and efficiency, promising a breakthrough in sea bridge engineering.

Despite its transformative potential, the MTHL has faced criticism from opposition parties over delays. 

Nevertheless, its imminent inauguration marks a milestone for Mumbai, promising not just reduced travel times but also enhanced economic prospects and improved connectivity between key regions. 

The bridge is anticipated to redefine the transportation landscape of the city and contribute to its continued development.