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Sanctioned nearly 12 years ago, the long-awaited 555-km Mumbai-Goa Highway is set to become operational by December 2024. This major infrastructure project aims to streamline traffic flow between Mumbai, Konkan, and Goa, significantly reducing travel time and improving connectivity.
According to Free Press Journal, a senior official from the state Public Works Department (PWD) informed that the construction work is advancing at a fast pace, with substantial progress already made. The highway is being built at an estimated cost of Rs 44,000 crore, managed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in collaboration with various state agencies.
"We have divided the entire project into 10 packages, out of which six are already completed. The tunnel in package 3 has one side operational, and the other side will open to the public by July 15. Minor works in package 1 are expected to be finished by December 2024," stated the official.
The 84-km stretch between Panvel and Kasu is 99% complete and will soon be open for use. This section has been divided into two packages: the 42-km stretch from Panvel to Kasu, nearing completion, and the 42-km stretch from Kasu to Indapur, which is under rapid construction with about 45% of the work done.
The residents of Konkan and frequent commuters between Mumbai and Goa have eagerly anticipated the Mumbai-Goa Highway. While the state government prioritized the completion of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) and the coastal road for Mumbai's commuters, the Mumbai-Goa highway faced delays. Now, with the project nearing its final stages, there is renewed hope for enhanced connectivity and reduced travel time.
Once fully operational, the highway will reduce travel time between Mumbai and Goa to just 6-8 hours. A senior NHAI official has confirmed that the entire highway will be ready by December 2024. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, had earlier mentioned that the project would be completed by June 2024, acknowledging the challenges faced but assuring that all issues would be resolved promptly. "The entire stretch between Mumbai and Goa would be operational by June, except for the Chiplun flyover," Gadkari said during his recent visit to Mumbai.
The highway is expected to provide much-needed relief to the people in the region, improving access and stimulating economic activities. As the December 2024 deadline approaches, both the government and the public are eagerly looking forward to the highway becoming fully operational.
This new infrastructure will not only make travel more efficient but also boost tourism and local businesses along the route. The completion of the Mumbai-Goa Highway marks a significant milestone in improving transportation infrastructure in the region, promising better days ahead for travelers and residents alike.
