Rajesh Patil, joint managing director of the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), said, “The construction of the VBSL project is progressing rapidly. So far, 25 per cent of the work has been completed, which includes the foundation and pier work in certain places. The project is expected to be completed by July 2027”
The under-construction Versova-Bandra Sea Link, as seen from Juhu beach. Pic/Ranjeet Jadhav
If all goes to plan, motorists will be able to use the Versova-Bandra Sea Link (VBSL) by July 2027. The challenging construction work is gaining momentum, with 25 per cent of the project, primarily the foundation and pier construction, already underway.
Rajesh Patil, joint managing director of the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), said, “The construction of the VBSL project is progressing rapidly. So far, 25 per cent of the work has been completed, which includes the foundation and pier work in certain places. The project is expected to be completed by July 2027.”
Patil also told mid-day that building infrastructure over the sea presents significant challenges, and all the necessary safety measures are being followed. MSRDC officials added that while construction in the sea halts during the monsoon, work on the sea link’s connectors will continue throughout the season.
The cost of the VBSL project has risen from the initially sanctioned Rs 11,332 crore in 2018 to Rs 18,120 crore, an increase of Rs 6,788 crore. The escalation is attributed to the relocation of the casting yard from Juhu to Malad, as well as additional expenses for beautification and lighting.
Once completed, the VBSL is expected to reduce travel time between Bandra and Versova significantly. Currently, the 12.4 km journey takes 45 to 60 minutes during peak hours. The sea link will cut this down to less than 15 minutes.
In addition to reduced travel time and improved traffic flow, MSRDC officials anticipate several indirect benefits, such as lower vehicle maintenance costs, environmental improvements, land value appreciation, increased employment opportunities, and reduced driver stress.
Multiple connectors
2.25 km (2+2 lane) connector at Bandra
2.57 km (3+3 lane) connector at Carter Road
4.5 km (2+2 lane) connector at Juhu
4.29 km connector at Versova, including one cable-stayed bridge
Once operational, the VBSL will help decongest key routes such as the Link Road, SV Road, and the Western Express Highway (WEH) stretch between Andheri and Bandra.
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