Home / Environment / Mumbai's New Tunnel Under SGNP Begins Excavation
Mumbai's New Tunnel Under SGNP Begins Excavation
18 Aug
Summary
- Excavation for twin 5.3-km tunnels under SGNP has commenced.
- The Goregaon-Mulund Link Road project aims for direct east-west connectivity.
- The project targets completion by February 2029 with 21% progress achieved.
Mumbai's Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (BMC) has initiated excavation for a crucial section of the Goregaon-Mulund Link Road (GMLR) project. This involves the construction of two 5.3-kilometer tunnels beneath the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP).
The first tunnel boring machine, named 'Tulsi', commenced excavation on Monday. These twin three-lane tunnels are designed to link Film City in Goregaon East with Amar Nagar in Mulund West, significantly enhancing east-west connectivity across Mumbai.
This undertaking is part of Phase 3B of the GMLR project, utilizing Earth Pressure Balance (EPB) TBM technology to minimize environmental impact within SGNP. The entire tunnel package spans 6.6 kilometers, including approach roads and cross passages.
Environmental clearances have been secured from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Rehabilitation for affected persons is underway in Kanjurmarg. The tunnels will feature advanced safety systems, including mechanical ventilation and firefighting measures.
The project has seen approximately 21% physical progress, with the assembly and testing of the first TBM completed. The entire GMLR project is anticipated to be finished by February 2029.
