The Thane Borivali Twin Tunnel is set to become the longest tunnel in Maharashtra and will change the way people move between the eastern and western suburbs of Mumbai.The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is building a massive new infrastructure project that will make travel faster and easier for millions of people.
A Tunnel Like No Other
This 11.84 km twin tunnel will connect Thane in the east to Borivali in the west. What makes this tunnel special is that it will go under the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, without harming the forest or its wildlife. There will be no vertical shafts, which means the park above will stay untouched. This shows a strong commitment to protecting nature while developing the city.
Huge Time Savings for Commuters
Right now, people traveling between Thane and Borivali have to take a long 23 km route through Ghodbunder Road. This can take over an hour, especially during peak traffic. Once the tunnel is completed, this journey will take only 15 minutes—saving time, fuel, and reducing traffic congestion.
Project Details
The construction contract has been awarded to Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited, a well-known company in the infrastructure sector.
Here are some key facts about the tunnel:
- Length: 11.84 kilometers
- Construction Time: Planned to finish in 5 years
- Construction Method: Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) with a record-breaking 13.05-meter diameter—one of the largest in India
- Precast Technology: Special concrete segments will be made in advance and used to build the tunnel walls quickly and safely
Modern Features and Design
This is not just a regular tunnel. It will include modern systems to ensure safety and convenience for all:
- Three lanes in each tunnel, with one lane reserved for emergencies
- Cross passages every 300 meters for emergency exits and maintenance
- Lighting, cameras, speakers, and ventilation systems inside the tunnel
- Separate passages for vehicles in case of emergencies
- A utility box above the tunnel to carry water pipes, power lines, and other essential services
- Precast or cast-in-place road slabs for smooth vehicle movement
Additional Infrastructure
To support the tunnel, several other structures will be built:
- A 550-meter flyover to connect Ghodbunder Road to the tunnel
- A 500-meter underpass from the tunnel toward Thane
- A toll plaza on the Thane side for entry and exit
- Service roads for local traffic
- A maintenance building with ventilation systems, fire safety tools, and surveillance rooms
At the Borivali side, there will be an underpass to help vehicles exit smoothly toward Datta Pada Road and other nearby areas.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
This tunnel will not only save time but also reduce pollution, traffic jams, and stress for commuters. By going under the national park without harming the environment, it sets a new standard for eco-friendly infrastructure in India.
The project is expected to bring more economic growth to the area by making travel faster and more efficient. It also shows strong leadership and vision under the guidance of India’s Prime Minister, the Chief Minister, and the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
Conclusion
The Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel is more than just a tunnel—it’s a step forward in smart city planning. By cutting travel time, protecting the environment, and improving infrastructure, it promises a better, faster, and greener future for Mumbai.
Stay tuned as MMRDA works to bring this historic project to life!