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Maharashtra is undertaking a major initiative to reduce traffic congestion in Mumbai by creating an extensive underground tunnel network called 'Paatal Lok.' The tunnels, designed to run parallel to existing roads, will complement Metro expansions and coastal road projects, improving east-west and north-south connectivity. Key projects include tunnels linking Thane-Borivali, Mulund-Goregaon, Atal Setu-Girgaon Chowpatty, and Bandra-Bandra Kurla Complex. Additionally, the Mumbai One app now offers a common ticketing system for multiple transport modes while keeping second-class suburban train fares unchanged.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis said his government is developing a comprehensive network of underground tunnels across Mumbai to reduce traffic congestion. He described this initiative as a 'Paatal Lok,' a term borrowed from a popular Hindi web series, to refer to a parallel road system beneath the city. Advertisement
The proposed tunnel grid is designed to span multiple directions, creating a shadow network alongside existing arterial routes. Fadnavis highlighted that this system would complement the ongoing expansion of Metro corridors and enhance overall city connectivity. He mentioned that the coastal road connecting South Mumbai to Bhayandar in Thane district will serve as a barrier-free parallel route to the Western Express Highway, which currently carries 60% of the city's traffic.
Several tunnel projects are already under construction, including the Thane-Borivali and Mulund-Goregaon tunnels, aimed at improving east-west connectivity. Additional projects, such as a parallel road between Borivali and Goregaon and the Worli-Shivdi connector expected next year, will link the Atal Setu with the Bandra-Worli Sea Link for smoother travel.
Fadnavis added that the tunnel connecting Atal Setu to Girgaon Chowpatty via the Eastern Express Highway is expected to be completed within three years, offering relief from current traffic jams. Another proposed tunnel from Bandra to the Bandra Kurla Complex will improve access to Mumbai's domestic airport, reducing travel time from South Mumbai to just 20 minutes.
In addition to infrastructure projects, the CM highlighted the launch of the integrated Mumbai One app, which allows commuters to use a single ticket for Metro rail, suburban local trains, and BEST buses. He assured that despite these changes, the fare for second-class suburban train travel, used by nearly 9 million people daily, will remain unchanged, and all suburban services will gradually be upgraded to air-conditioned coaches.
Source PTI
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