Mumbai is preparing for one of its most ambitious infrastructure overhauls in recent history — a sprawling underground tunnel network aimed at eliminating the city’s crippling traffic congestion. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday announced that the government is creating a “Pathal Lok” — a comprehensive, underground mobility grid — that will change the way Mumbai moves in the next decade.
Addressing thousands of youth at an event held at the Dome Arena in Worli, Fadnavis said the vision is to ensure that Mumbai’s average traffic speed reaches 80 kmph within the next seven years, a dramatic jump from the current 15–20 kmph gridlock experienced during peak hours.
Western Express Highway: The Core of Mumbai’s Traffic Burden
The Chief Minister highlighted that nearly 60% of Mumbai’s total road traffic burden falls solely on the Western Express Highway (WEH).
“Unless the Western Express Highway is decongested, traffic in Mumbai cannot be fully resolved,” Fadnavis said, underscoring the need for alternative high-speed travel corridors.
New Tunnels to Connect Bandra Sea Link, BKC and the Mumbai Airport
A major highlight of the government’s “Pathal Lok” blueprint includes a tunnel originating from the Bandra Sea Link, offering two critical high-speed connections:
These tunnels intend to divert the traffic load away from core arterial roads, reduce surface congestion and cut airport travel time drastically.
“Our aim is to decongest BKC and ensure that citizens reach the airport in the minimum possible time,” Fadnavis added.
Target Year 2032: “All Projects Will Be Delivered”
When asked by attendees whether these infrastructural dreams will materialize, Fadnavis offered a clear assurance:
“All the promises we have made, and all the projects we have started to decongest Mumbai, will be completed by 2032.”
This includes tunnel networks, road realignments, decongestion projects, and mobility reforms.
Local Trains to Become Metro-Like With Close-Door Coaches
Fadnavis also announced a major shift in Mumbai’s suburban railway system:
All local trains will gradually adopt close-door rakes, currently used only in select AC locals.
“Train services will be like the metro — safer, faster, and more efficient — and without any hike in ticket fares,” he promised.
This is expected to reduce accidents, improve punctuality, and modernize the century-old suburban rail experience.
BJP to Prioritize Youth in Upcoming Civic Elections
Speaking on political participation, the CM emphasized that the BJP will introduce new, young candidates in the upcoming municipal elections.
“I can’t comment on other parties, but for the BJP, people will certainly witness new and young faces getting party tickets,” he said, encouraging youth to step forward and participate in governance.
“Zero Corruption Under Modi Government” — Fadnavis
Responding to a question on corruption, Fadnavis strongly defended the Central Government.
“In the last 11 years, not a single charge of corruption has been levelled against Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he stated.
He contrasted this with pre-2014 governments that faced multiple corruption allegations and instability.
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi ji, people are witnessing a stable and corruption-free government.”
A Transformative Vision for Mumbai’s Next Decade
With underground tunnels, metro-style trains, and new mobility corridors, the government claims that Mumbai will enter a new era of fast, reliable transportation.
However, experts and citizens alike will be watching closely to see how efficiently these promises are executed over the next seven years.
For now, the vision of “Pathal Lok” — a city beneath the city — has captured the imagination of a traffic-weary Mumbai.
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