Mumbai is on the brink of significant transformation as it implements extensive city infrastructure development plans aimed at improving urban mobility and safety. Among the highlights is the much-anticipated "Missing Link" project, part of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, which has been under construction and is expected to be completed by August 2025. According to The Indian Express, 92 percent of this 13.3-kilometer stretch has already been completed, inching closer to operational status.
Officially referred to as the Yashwantrao Chavan Expressway (YCEW), this project has been handled by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC). It seeks to connect Khopoli with Kusgaon, bypassing the hazardous 19-kilometer Khandala Ghat, notorious for steep inclines and vehicle speed restrictions. The "Missing Link" is anticipated to not only increase safety but also reduce travel time significantly. Once operational, it will cut the travel distance by 5.7 kilometers, reducing travel time by 20 to 30 minutes.
This infrastructure improvement also aims to address long-standing issues surrounding the Khandala region, where monsoon rains frequently trigger landslides, causing major traffic disruptions. The new alignment is engineered to mitigate such hazards—"The new alignment is engineered to mitigate such hazards," reported The Indian Express. Key features of this ambitious project include two tunnels—1.75 kilometers and 8.92 kilometers long—and two cable-stayed bridges, measuring 770 meters and 645 meters, respectively. Notably, the underground tunnel will be Asia’s widest road tunnel at 23.75 meters, accommodating eight lanes with dedicated emergency lanes on both sides.
With total expenditures hovering around Rs 6,600 crores, the "Missing Link" project showcases Mumbai’s commitment to extensive urban development through innovative engineering. Stakeholders eagerly await its completion, as it promises to reshape travel dynamics on one of India’s busiest expressways.
On another front, the city is preparing to adopt a universal footpath policy focused on improving walkability across Mumbai. According to the budget document, "Walkability of the city involves condition of footpath, width of footpath, safety concerns, accessibility, routine maintenance." A well-designed pedestrian network is expected to ease vehicular traffic and encourage healthier commuting methods.
These infrastructural enhancements align with broader efforts to upgrade Mumbai’s suburban train network. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently announced plans to introduce new-design trains featuring modern amenities to bolster passenger comfort and efficiency. A significant budget of Rs 16,400 crores has been allocated for railway projects on both the Central and Western Railway lines. Minister Vaishnaw stated, "A record allocation of Rs 23,778 crore has been made for railways in Maharashtra," illustrating the government’s commitment to enhancing public transportation.
The upgrades include reducing the time gap between local trains from the current 180 seconds to 150 seconds, eventually achieving 120 seconds. This ambitious plan will also see the introduction of an additional 300 local train services to accommodate the city's commuters. Proposed features for the new trains include improved ventilation systems and enhanced suspension to tackle the overcrowding previously experienced.
Further contributing to alleviating Mumbai's traffic congestion is the launch of the new parking application by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Advertised as part of the BMC’s 2025-26 budget, this app allows users to book parking slots in advance and make online payments. While this innovative solution aims to resolve the persistent parking shortages experienced by Mumbaikars, the apparent effectiveness of the app remains to be seen. "With the help of this mobile app, users will be able to book parking slots in advance and make online payments," announced the BMC.
The BMC has also initiated additional traffic management measures. Work on the Access Control Project has begun, with improvements already underway at key junctions on the Eastern and Western Express Highways. The implementation of Area Traffic Control (ATC) systems at signal junctions across Greater Mumbai seeks to improve traffic flow and reduce waiting times.
Given the cumulative impact of these initiatives, Mumbai appears poised to vastly improve the conditions for commuters and pedestrians alike. By integrating new technologies, rigorous planning, and safety protocols, these strategic infrastructure projects mark significant steps toward cultivating efficient urban transport systems. If successful, this multi-faceted approach may help mitigate future congestion woes and create a more navigable city for all its residents.