by datta Nighut 
Mumbai’s iconic Marine Drive Expansion , often dubbed the Queen’s Necklace, is set for a major transformation as the Maharashtra government has approved a plan to widen the scenic coastal road from six to twelve lanes. This ambitious project aims to alleviate anticipated traffic congestion along the 3-km stretch from the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) to the entrance of the Mumbai Coastal Road. The decision comes in response to growing concerns about traffic bottlenecks expected after the completion of the Orange Gate Tunnel by 2028.
Addressing Future Traffic Challenges
The Orange Gate Tunnel, a 6.52-km dual tunnel system with a dedicated emergency lane, is designed to enhance east-west connectivity in South Mumbai. Connecting the Eastern Freeway (leading to Atal Setu) with the Coastal Road at Marine Drive, the tunnel will form a critical ring route for the city. According to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), 10% of the tunnel’s construction is already complete. However, the increased traffic flow it is expected to bring to Marine Drive has prompted the government to rethink the road’s capacity.
To accommodate the projected surge, the state plans to widen Marine Drive by reclaiming parts of the promenade and a portion of the Arabian Sea. The new 12-lane stretch will run parallel to the existing road, ensuring smoother traffic flow during peak hours. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who greenlit the project after discussions at Sahyadri Guest House, emphasized its forward-thinking approach. In a statement to Hindustan Times, he noted, “This solution keeps Mumbai’s needs in mind for the next 25 years while preserving the essence of the Queen’s Necklace.”
Balancing Development and Heritage
The Rs. 500 crore project has sparked discussions about balancing urban development with the preservation of Marine Drive’s iconic charm. Last year, a section of the road was widened to support the Coastal Road’s Marine Drive-Worli arm, setting a precedent for such expansions. While the Mumbai Police issued a No Objection Certificate for the Orange Gate Tunnel in 2023, they recently raised concerns about potential traffic snarls, prompting MMRDA to explore alternative alignments. After evaluating options, Fadnavis approved the widening plan as the most viable solution.
A Step Toward Smarter Urban Mobility
The Marine Drive expansion is part of Mumbai’s broader efforts to modernize its infrastructure and address chronic traffic woes. The Orange Gate Tunnel and Coastal Road projects are pivotal in reducing congestion in South Mumbai, a hub for business and tourism. By widening Marine Drive, the government aims to ensure these infrastructure upgrades deliver long-term benefits without compromising the city’s aesthetic appeal.
What are your thoughts on this bold initiative? Will it transform Mumbai’s traffic landscape or alter the charm of Marine Drive? Share your views in the comments below!
