Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Work Begins, Travel Time to Shrink to 15 Minutes by 2028

Maharashtra launches construction of a major twin tunnel beneath Sanjay Gandhi National Park, aiming to cut Thane-Borivali travel time from 90 minutes to just 15 minutes by May 2028.

Thane | April 8, 2026: Maharashtra has taken a major step forward in urban infrastructure development with the commencement of excavation work for the ambitious Thane-Borivali twin tunnel project. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed confidence that the project will be completed within the next two years, significantly reducing travel time between the two key suburbs.

The tunnel, which will pass beneath the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, is being described as the deepest and widest road tunnel in the country. Once operational, the corridor is expected to bring down the current travel time of nearly 90 minutes to just 15 minutes, providing a major boost to connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

The six-lane project, estimated at around ₹16,600 crore, is designed to ease congestion on existing routes and improve east-west connectivity. Officials highlighted that the project will also contribute to economic growth by facilitating smoother movement of people and goods between Thane and western suburbs of Mumbai.

The construction phase was formally launched with the activation of Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) in the presence of key dignitaries. Alongside the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and other senior officials attended the event marking the beginning of excavation work.

The project, initially under the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), has now been transferred to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority for execution. Authorities stated that the shift is aimed at ensuring faster implementation and better coordination, given MMRDA’s experience in handling large-scale urban infrastructure projects.

The foundation for the tunnel project was laid in 2024 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Since then, preparatory work including surveys, environmental clearances, and technical planning has been completed, paving the way for the current construction phase.

One of the key aspects of the project is its underground alignment beneath a protected forest area. Officials emphasised that the tunnel design has been planned in a manner that minimises impact on biodiversity and the surrounding ecosystem. Being entirely subterranean, the project avoids large-scale surface disruption within the national park.

Experts note that the use of advanced TBM technology will enable precise and efficient excavation, ensuring structural safety and adherence to environmental norms. The project is also expected to incorporate modern safety features, ventilation systems, and emergency response mechanisms.

Beyond reducing travel time, the tunnel is likely to decongest major arterial roads such as the Ghodbunder Road and Western Express Highway, which currently face heavy traffic during peak hours. The improved connectivity is expected to enhance commuter convenience and reduce fuel consumption, contributing to environmental benefits in the long run.

Officials also indicated that the project will generate employment opportunities during its construction phase and support regional development by improving accessibility between residential and commercial zones.

While the timeline set for completion is ambitious, authorities remain optimistic that with continuous monitoring and efficient execution, the project will meet its deadlines. Once completed, the Thane-Borivali twin tunnel is expected to become one of the most significant infrastructure milestones in the state.

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