By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025, 04:23 PM
**Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Proposes Tunnel Connecting Mumbai to Navi Mumbai International Airport**
Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to prepare a detailed feasibility report for a proposed tunnel that would connect Mumbai with the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. This initiative aims to enhance travel convenience and alleviate congestion once the airport becomes operational.
The new airport, scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is expected to handle up to two crore passengers annually, marking a significant boost to the region’s aviation capacity.
### Airport Launch and Inauguration Ceremony
The inauguration ceremony is set for tomorrow, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar in attendance. The first commercial flight from the airport is anticipated to take off in December.
Officials have warned of a substantial increase in traffic following the airport’s commencement, which may put additional pressure on the existing road infrastructure.
### Strengthening Connectivity: Integrated Transport Network
To address these challenges, the government is exploring innovative ways to improve connectivity between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. Deputy Chief Minister Shinde emphasized the need for an integrated transport network that links the new airport with suburban rail, metro corridors, and waterways.
“To ensure seamless movement, the deputy chief minister has instructed the MMRDA Commissioner to study the feasibility of constructing a tunnel connecting the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and Bandra Kurla Complex to Navi Mumbai Airport,” stated an official release.
### Transport Integration with High-Speed Rail
In addition, Shinde has asked officials to examine the possibility of integrating the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project with major regional transport hubs. Key stations under consideration include the Mhatardi bullet train station in Thane, Kopar railway station, and Taloja Metro station.
The Mhatardi station, currently under construction in Diva, is planned as a significant transport hub that will connect bullet trains, suburban trains, metro routes, and highways. This integration aims to provide seamless connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
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The proposed infrastructure developments are poised to transform regional travel by creating a comprehensive, interconnected transport system, ensuring easier access to the new Navi Mumbai International Airport and supporting the city’s growing transportation needs.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/shinde-asks-mmrda-to-study-feasibility-of-mumbai-navi-mumbai-tunnel/story