STN: The Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel project has achieved a historic step forward. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has completed the excavation of the Thane-side portal. It has also lowered the massive 13.34-metre single-shield Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) cutterhead. This is the largest TBM cutterhead ever used in India for an urban infrastructure project. The development officially signals the beginning of the full-scale tunnelling phase.
How the Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel Will Transform Connectivity
The Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel will be 11.8 kilometres long. It will run underground and link Ghodbunder Road in Thane to the Western Express Highway in Borivali. The commute between the two points currently takes 60 to 90 minutes. After the tunnel opens, the same journey is expected to take only 15 minutes. This will change how lakhs of people travel every day across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
Advanced Engineering for a Smoother and Safer Commute
A major portion of the tunnel passes below the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, an eco-sensitive region. To make the work safe and environmentally responsible, MMRDA is using advanced TBM technology. The focus is on minimal ground disturbance and maximum safety.
Each tunnel will include three lanes. One of them will act as a dedicated emergency lane. Cross-passages will appear every 300 metres for safety and maintenance access. The structure will also have modern ventilation systems, firefighting equipment, smoke detection sensors and LED guidance displays. These features ensure safe and efficient movement for drivers once the tunnel opens.
The Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel is expected to reduce congestion across the region. It will also lower vehicle emissions by cutting long travel delays. Once completed, the project will offer a cleaner and more efficient mobility experience for citizens.
A New Benchmark for Urban Infrastructure
The successful lowering of the TBM cutterhead is a major engineering accomplishment. It shows Mumbai’s readiness to undertake difficult underground mobility projects. MMRDA has been pushing the boundaries of technology and planning. This milestone reinforces its commitment to building sustainable, world-class transport solutions for the region.
With this project, MMRDA aims to reshape travel patterns, improve road capacity and reduce pollution levels. It also highlights the region’s growing ability to blend development with environmental care.
FAQ
A: MMRDA has not announced a final completion date yet. Full-scale tunnelling has just begun. Timelines will depend on excavation progress and safety clearances.
A: The tunnel depth will vary based on the terrain, especially while passing under Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Detailed depth specifications are expected in future updates.
A: MMRDA has not confirmed toll details yet. A decision will be taken closer to the project’s completion.
A: Shorter travel time will reduce fuel consumption and cut emissions. TBM technology also reduces surface damage and protects the park ecosystem.
A: The TBM cutterhead has been sourced from global tunnelling technology providers engaged by MMRDA’s contractors. Official details will be shared in subsequent updates.
