Mumbai: Coastal Road work in Kandivali under technical scrutiny

BJP MLA Sanjay Upadhyay (centre), who met the BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gangrani (in white shirt) to raise residents’ concerns over vibrations near the project site. Pic/By Special Arrangement

After residents of Charkop Sector 8 in Kandivali West complained of building vibrations during soil investigation for the Coastal Road interconnector, BJP MLA Sanjay Upadhyay met Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, following which the BMC decided to appoint experts from VJTI to conduct a technical inspection of the area. Officials said the review will assess structural safety, address citizens' concerns and recommend safeguards before work proceeds further.

What triggered concern

Residents reported strong vibrations during pile testing linked to the Charkop interconnector. The issue was raised with local MLA Sanjay Upadhyay, who met Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani along with civic representatives on February 18.

Ongoing Coastal Road-related construction work in Kandivli, which residents say has caused vibrations in nearby areas. Pic/Nimesh Dave

Following the meeting, the BMC agreed to appoint a VJTI expert to inspect the site and reassure residents. A local communication group will also be formed to share updates and address complaints in real time.

What happens next

The VJTI inspection is expected to evaluate vibration levels, assess structural safety and recommend safeguards before further work proceeds.Officials say the review aims to balance infrastructure development with residents' safety concerns.

Measures BMC has promised

Pollution control
15-ft tin barriers to reduce dust and noise Additional dust suppression measures

Parking relief
Facility for about 700 vehicles Community-rate parking instead of commercial charges

Phases

>> Versova to Dahisar (first stretch)
>> Dahisar to Bhayandar (final stretch)
>> The corridor will extend Mumbai's Coastal Road network, linking with major routes such as the Nariman Point Coastal Road and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.

Why the Coastal Road project matters

Project: Versova-Bhayandar Coastal Road
Purpose: Improve connectivity and reduce congestion in the western suburbs
Length: 26.3 km