Mumbai: Arjuna TBM Begins Operations For Thane-Borivali Tunnel Project
Thane-Borivali tunnel project gets a boost, SCLR final phase and Chembur Metro 2B station to open today

Mumbai is set to witness significant improvements in its infrastructure with the commencement of operations of the 'Arjuna' tunnel boring machine (TBM) for the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Project. The project, which is 11.84 km long, aims to provide direct underground connectivity between Ghodbunder Road in Thane and the Western Express Highway near Borivali.
The 'Arjuna' TBM is one of India's largest hard-rock TBMs, with a 13.34-m diameter and an approximate weight of 2,500 tonnes. The tunnel project includes two traffic lanes and an emergency lane in each tunnel, with cross-passages every 300 metres, mechanical ventilation, fire-fighting and smoke-detection systems.
Once completed, the project is expected to cut travel time from around 60-90 minutes to just 15 minutes and carry approximately 80,000 vehicles a day by 2029. The tunnels are designed to minimise environmental impact and are being constructed beneath the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The project also includes compensatory plantation of around 11,000 trees.
In addition to the tunnel project, the Santacruz-Chembur Link Road (SCLR) final phase and the Chembur Metro 2B station are set to open today. The SCLR corridor is expected to significantly improve connectivity between the city's eastern and western suburbs. The final phase comprises the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC)-Vakola connector, which will complete the missing link in the east-west corridor.
The opening of the SCLR final phase and the Chembur Metro 2B station is a significant milestone in Mumbai's infrastructure development. The SCLR corridor will provide seamless connectivity between the Eastern Express Highway and the Western Express Highway, reducing travel time and congestion.
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has been working tirelessly to complete the project. A formal programme has been organised at Government Guest House Sahyadri in Malabar Hill, where the Chief Minister, two Deputy Chief Ministers and other ministers will be present.
The Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Project is expected to ease congestion and reduce air and noise pollution, supporting more sustainable and integrated urban development across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The project is a significant step towards improving the city's infrastructure and providing better connectivity to its residents.
The commencement of operations of the 'Arjuna' TBM and the opening of the SCLR final phase and the Chembur Metro 2B station are major milestones in Mumbai's infrastructure development. The city is expected to witness significant improvements in its connectivity and congestion reduction, making it a better place to live and work.
In conclusion, the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Project and the SCLR final phase are significant infrastructure projects that will improve connectivity and reduce congestion in Mumbai. The commencement of operations of the 'Arjuna' TBM and the opening of the SCLR final phase and the Chembur Metro 2B station are major milestones in the city's infrastructure development.
The project's completion is expected to have a significant impact on the city's traffic and pollution levels. With the reduced travel time and increased connectivity, the city is expected to become a more attractive place to live and work. The project is a testament to the city's commitment to providing better infrastructure and services to its residents.
The Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Project and the SCLR final phase are just a few examples of the city's ongoing infrastructure development projects. The city is constantly working to improve its infrastructure and provide better services to its residents. With the completion of these projects, the city is expected to become an even more desirable place to live and work.
The impact of the project will be felt across the city, with reduced traffic congestion and improved air quality. The project is a significant step towards making Mumbai a more sustainable and livable city. The city's residents can expect to see significant improvements in their daily commute and overall quality of life.
The project's completion is a major achievement for the city and its residents. The city can expect to see significant economic benefits from the improved connectivity and reduced congestion. The project is a testament to the city's commitment to providing better infrastructure and services to its residents.
In the end, the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Project and the SCLR final phase are significant infrastructure projects that will improve connectivity and reduce congestion in Mumbai. The commencement of operations of the 'Arjuna' TBM and the opening of the SCLR final phase and the Chembur Metro 2B station are major milestones in the city's infrastructure development. The project's completion is expected to have a significant impact on the city's traffic and pollution levels, making it a more attractive place to live and work.
Frequently asked questions
What is the length of the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Project?
The project is 11.84 km long, comprising a 10.25-km twin tunnel and 1.59 km of connecting roads.
What is the expected travel time reduction once the project is completed?
The project is expected to cut travel time from around 60-90 minutes to just 15 minutes.