The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is making significant progress in the construction of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Sea Link, a transformative project aimed at reducing travel time between Sewri and Navi Mumbai to just 20 to 25 minutes.

As of now, an impressive 96.60% of the project has been successfully completed. The MMRDA is diligently working to finalise the remaining tasks by the end of December, with the goal of opening the sea bridge for public use at the beginning of the New Year. In line with this objective, the MMRDA has recently taken a crucial step by issuing a tender for the operation and maintenance of this ambitious project. This tender invites international-level companies to  manage the day-to-day operations and upkeep of the bridge.

The sea link, spanning 21.80 kilometres, promises to significantly improve travel between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, making it both faster and more convenient. The construction of this vital infrastructure commenced in 2018, with the original completion target set for September 2022. However, due to challenges such as the COVID-19 and other technical difficulties, the project faced delays. Nevertheless, the MMRDA is now determined to open this sea bridge for traffic by December 2023.

Recently, Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, MMRDA Commissioner, inspected the project and reviewed its progress. The project has now reached its final stages, with 96.60% of the work completed. Technical works are also underway to ensure a smooth and efficient operation.

To expedite the transformation of this project into a functional transport service, the MMRDA has initiated the tender process for its operation and maintenance, inviting international companies with a proven track record in managing sea bridges.

Travellers using the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Sea Link will be required to pay a toll to cover the Mumbai-Navi Mumbai distance in just 20 to 25 minutes. Toll booths will be installed at eight locations along the route, all of which will be automated. Toll collection will be conducted using the open road tolling method. The exact toll charges are yet to be determined, and a committee established by the state government will recommend the appropriate toll rates. The committee is expected to provide its recommendations shortly