12 May,2026 07:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet Jadhav
Uneven stretches and ongoing repair work on the MbPA approach road beneath the Eastern Freeway near Sewri slow traffic movement towards Atal Setu. Pics/Shadab Khan
Motorists travelling towards the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) via the Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) road from Ferry Wharf junction are paying a toll of Rs 40, but many say the approach road beneath the Eastern Freeway is riddled with uneven stretches, faded speed breaker markings and ongoing digging work near Sewri, causing inconvenience and safety concerns.
During a visit by this reporter on May 7, the stretch from Orange Gate towards Atal Setu via the MbPA road was found uneven at several points. Multiple speed breakers lacked proper markings, while one lane near the signal leading to Atal Setu had been dug up for repair work, slowing traffic movement towards Navi Mumbai and Panvel. The bottleneck near the Sewri junction forced vehicles to navigate through a narrowed carriageway.
Vepul Mane, a motorist, told mid-day, "A few portions of the MbPA road beneath the Eastern Freeway are uneven and even the markings on the speed breakers have gone away. Ongoing digging work near Sewri has narrowed the road and slowed traffic movement towards Atal Setu. Authorities should ensure that the approach roads to infrastructure projects are properly maintained for the safety and convenience of motorists." Motorists have also raised concerns over safety at night due to poor road conditions.
Route inspected: Orange Gate to Atal Setu via MbPA road
Date: May 7
Main issues observed:
>> Uneven road surface at multiple stretches
>> Unmarked speed breakers
>> Ongoing digging work near Sewri junction
>> Narrowed lane slowing traffic movement
Uneven stretches and repair work on the MbPA approach road beneath the Eastern Freeway near Sewri slow traffic movement towards Atal Setu. Pics/Shadab Khan
A separate drive conducted on Atal Setu between Sewri and Navi Mumbai found the MMRDA-maintained carriageway to be in good condition, with a smooth driving surface and no major maintenance concerns observed.
The Mumbai Port Authority levies toll on vehicles using roads under its jurisdiction, including the stretch connecting Reay Road and Wadala-Mahul Road.
A view of the smooth surface of Atal Setu during a recent inspection between Sewri and Navi Mumbai. Pics/Rane Ashish
Cars and three-wheelers Rs 40
Trucks Rs 60
Trailers and multi-axle vehicles Rs 90
