The projects, along with the underground work for the second tunnel of the delayed Thane-Borivali tunnel project, will be formally inaugurated by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
The opening of the BKC-Wakola elevated road is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Santacruz, BKC and the Western Express Highway. The signal-free stretch could reduce the travel time between Santacruz and BKC from around 30-35 minutes to just 5 to 10 minutes.
The elevated road will also provide vehicles coming from BKC with a smoother connection to the Western Express Highway. At present, heavy traffic builds up around the exits from BKC, particularly during office closing hours.
Officials expect the new route to ease some of this pressure by providing an alternative exit from the busy business district.
Interestingly, the road had been ready for nearly two months. Major construction work, painting and road markings had already been completed, but its opening was delayed while officials waited for a suitable date for the inauguration.
The Chembur station on Metro Line 2B faced a similar delay. Construction was completed earlier, and the station received its final safety certification from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) towards the end of May.
Once the station opens, commuters will be able to travel directly by Metro between Mandalay and Chembur, improving connectivity for residents in the eastern suburbs.
The BKC-Wakola project has been built at an estimated cost of around ₹645 crore. The elevated road is approximately 1.2 km long and has two lanes in each direction.
It will connect key locations including Wakola Junction, Ambedkar Chowk, University Junction and BKC Junction.
The two projects are expected to improve road and Metro connectivity in areas that see heavy daily commuter movement, particularly around BKC and the eastern suburbs.
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