CM Fadnavis Launches TBM-2 in Thane for Twin Tunnel Project
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday virtually launched the second tunnel boring machine (TBM-2) from the Thane side for the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel project. The event was part of the inauguration of four major infrastructure projects executed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to improve connectivity and reduce traffic congestion in the region.
The Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel project is designed to drastically shorten travel time between Thane and Borivali. According to Fadnavis, the 23-kilometer journey, which previously took around 90 minutes, will take a maximum of 12 minutes after the project is completed. He noted that the first tunnel was launched two months ago, while Thursday's ceremony officially launched the project for the second tunnel.
As part of the same virtual event, Fadnavis inaugurated an elevated corridor landing from Bharat Nagar Road at the University Campus to Vakola Junction on SCLR-2, as well as the Chembur Metro Station under Phase 1A of Metro Line 2B. Discussing BKC connectivity, Fadnavis noted that eight links have now been completed to decongest G-Block, exceeding the original plan of six links. He acknowledged that the Phase-2 landing at Bharat Nagar Road and Vakola Junction had caused some congestion on the Western Express Highway, but stated that traffic was actively being managed.
Additionally, the flyover connecting G Block in Bandra-Kurla Complex to the Eastern Express Highway was officially named after former Maharashtra Chief Minister Barrister Babasaheb Anantrao Bhosale. Fadnavis said the naming decision was finalized after discussions with Bhosale's family to preserve his memory, highlighting his legacy in making decisions like free education for girls and creating Gadchiroli district.
Regarding future transit, Fadnavis stated that Metro Line 2B is in its final stages, projecting that at least 90 lakh commuters will travel daily once full network integration is complete. He added that new automatic air-conditioned local trains will arrive by March 2030 to make local rail transit as good as metro services.
