Navi Mumbai: Work is in full swing on the Airoli-Ghansoli Bridge and the Palm Beach Road extension, two key infrastructure projects expected to transform connectivity across Navi Mumbai and ease congestion along Thane Creek.

Spearheaded jointly by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) and CIDCO, the Rs 540 crore initiative aims to reduce traffic in Airoli, Ghansoli, and neighbouring areas, while improving access to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport and Mumbai’s eastern suburbs.

The 3.47-kilometre bridge includes a 1.9-kilometre elevated stretch passing over mangrove areas to minimise ecological disruption. It will directly link Airoli to Ghansoli, decongesting the overburdened Thane–Belapur and Palm Beach roads, while offering a smooth alternative route to the Sion–Panvel Expressway. The bridge will terminate at Varista Junction, providing critical parallel access to the region’s arterial roads.

NMMC has allocated Rs 372 crore towards the project in its 2023–24 budget, with CIDCO contributing as part of its development roadmap. Construction began in February and is scheduled for completion by September 2026.

Once operational, the corridor will benefit thousands of commuters, particularly those travelling to major employment hubs such as MIDC and Mindspace IT Park. It will also enhance connectivity to Kalyan, Ambernath, Badlapur, and Murbad via the upcoming Airoli–Katai Road and the Airoli–Mulund Bridge.

“This is a transformative project for Navi Mumbai,” said a senior NMMC official. “Beyond easing congestion, it will unlock regional growth and create new opportunities.”