The construction of the MTHL project began in 2018 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2023. The project is being executed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). The MTHL will begin in Sewri, South Mumbai, cross Thane Creek north of Elephanta Island, and terminate at Chirle near Nhava Sheva in Uran taluka.
Massive infrastructural development
The MTHL project is a massive infrastructural development that will connect Mumbai with Navi Mumbai, its satellite city. The project is aimed at reducing the travel time between the two cities, which are rapidly growing. The MTHL project is expected to have a significant impact on the transportation sector in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. The MMRDA estimates that 70,000 vehicles will use the bridge daily after it opens. The MTHL project is also expected to boost the real estate sector in Navi Mumbai, as it will provide better connectivity to the city.
Implemented in four packages
The MTHL project is being implemented in four packages. The first package involves the construction of a bridge spanning across Thane Creek and Sewri Interchange, which is 10.38 km long. The second package involves the construction of a bridge from Sewri Interchange to Shivaji Nagar Interchange, which is 7.807 km long. The third package involves the construction of a bridge from Shivaji Nagar Interchange to Chirle Interchange, which is 3.613 km long. The fourth package involves the implementation of an Intelligent Transport System (ITS), Automated Toll Collection system, and electrical works, among others.
Executed using many unique products
The MTHL project is being executed using many unique products and state-of-the-art construction methods. The bridge will be 21.8 km long, with a 6-lane highway that is 27 meters in width, in addition to two emergency exit lanes, edge strip, and a crash barrier. The sea link will contain a 6-lane (3+3 lane) highway+1 emergency lane on both sides. There are seven Orthotropic Steel Deck (OSD) spans of length 90m to 180m, which are used on the bridge for the first time in India. The MTHL project is expected to be the longest sea bridge in India when completed.
Challenges Faced During Construction Of MTHL Project
The construction of the MTHL project has not been without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges faced during the construction of the MTHL project was the construction of the bridge over the ecologically sensitive Thane Creek. To avoid the ecological impacts, Orthotropic steel decks were used instead of steel cables. Noise and view barriers were also located at important points to minimize the impact of the bridge on the environment.
The MTHL project is a significant milestone in the development of Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. It is expected to provide a faster and more efficient mode of transportation between the two cities. The project is also expected to have a positive impact on the economy of the region, as it will provide better connectivity to the ports and industrial areas in the region.
The construction of the MTHL project is a testament to the vision and determination of the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). The project is expected to provide a faster and more efficient mode of transportation between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, which will have a positive impact on the economy of the region. The MTHL project is a significant milestone in the development of Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, and it is expected to benefit the people of the region for years to come.