Mumbai: MMRDA Re-Invites Tender For Nariman Point-Colaba Sea Link Project

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is working on a 1.6-kilometre, four-lane, sea link project connecting Nariman Point and Colaba in south Mumbai.

MMRDA issued tenders earlier this year for the construction of the sea link. But MMRDA has now re-invited for tender after interested parties requested more time.

On an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) basis, the total cost of the project is estimated to be Rs 284.55 crore.

This bridge is expected to reduce the driving distance between the two points to just five minutes.

According to an Indian Express report, MMRDA plans to complete the civil work within two years following the contractor's appointment. This project's progress work is currently at the tendering stage.

The bridge is also expected to have a jetty, walking and cycling paths, and a viewing gallery.

This project will be Mumbai's third sea link at the southern tip of Mumbai after the Bandra-Worli and Sewri-Nhava Sheva bridges.

To relieve traffic congestion in Mumbai's southern business district, the 2008 Comprehensive Transport Study (CTS) proposed a Cuffe Parade-Nariman Point bridge.

The distance between Colaba and Nariman Point is only a little over a kilometre, but using the city's road network requires about five kilometres, which can take over 20 minutes during rush hour.

Residents of Colaba and Cuffe Parade will benefit from easier access to the Coastal Road via Nariman Point.

The projected sea link will build a ring road around Mumbai when combined with already completed, continuing, and planned developments.

As part of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project, MMRDA appointed LEA International Limited, Canada in a joint venture with LEA Associates South Asia Pvt. Ltd. India as a consultant to conduct a Comprehensive Transport Study and Business Plan to improve traffic and transportation facilities in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

There are obstacles to the project. Security clearances may be difficult to get because the link will pass through a high-security zone through naval and coast guard areas.

Environmental clearance may be difficult to get because some reclamation may be required.

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