Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis announces an ambitious “Paatal Lok” underground tunnel network to decongest Mumbai, promising faster travel, improved connectivity to BKC and the airport, and average speeds of 80 kmph in the coming years. (Pics/Sayyed Sameed Abedi)
Updated On: 2025-11-24 12:52 PM IST
Compiled by : Tarun Verma
The term "Paatal Lok" has been popularised by a Hindi web series noted for its depiction of the netherworld. Fadnavis used the term to describe the proposed underground road network
Fadnavis, while speaking at IIMUN's (India's International Movement to Unite Nations) Youth Connect session, said that, "We are creating a 'Paatal Lok', a widespread network of tunnels across Mumbai city for complete decongestion"
The Chief Minister further added that "it will be a parallel network to existing roads," noting that expanding Metro corridors would complement the plan
Fadnavis also emphasised, "Sixty per cent of Mumbai moves on the Western Motorway. Until you decongest it, there is no solution," he said. "We are creating a network of parallel roads...where your average speed will be 80 km per hour"
A proposed tunnel from Bandra to the Bandra Kurla Complex will improve access to the domestic airport. "From south Mumbai to the domestic airport, people will reach in 20 minutes," CM Fadnavis added
