Overview

• Union environment ministry approved diversion of 8.24 hectares of mangroves permanently and 68.55 hectares temporarily with a restoration plan to reforest affected areas after construction.
• BMC has begun meeting Coastal Regulation Zone and forest transfer conditions ahead of filing for final project approval in the Bombay High Court.
• The 60 km expressway will include interchanges, elevated roads, bridges and two tunnels linking Versova to Bhayander.
• It is projected to cut travel time from 90–120 minutes to 15–20 minutes and lower carbon emissions by about 55% through reduced fuel use.
• Officials are formalising land acquisitions and tenant rehabilitation plans to meet the August 2025 construction start date.