L&T to connect Powai colonies with road tunnel?

Mumbai: Major traffic jams at Saki Vihar Road and Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road (JVLR) Square in Powai could be things of the past as multi-national firm Larsen and Toubro (L&T) has proposed to build a tunnel road to connect both its colonies along the road. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to charge an annual lease of Rs 14.67 lakh to the company for allowing its land use for the tunnel construction.

According to civic officials, two colonies belong to L&T at Tungwe village in Powai. Saki Vihar Road divides the colonies, which possess amenities such as a residential complex, commercial buildings and a hospital. To reach the other colony, L&T residents have to cross the road, which creates traffic snarls on road as well as JVLR Square.

L&T had proposed to build a 210 metre-long tunnel under the Saki Vihar Road connecting both the colonies. The proposed tunnel road is 11 metres wide and up to five to nine feet deep.

“The tunnel would allow L&T residents to reach to the other part of the colony easily and also prevent traffic jams,” said a senior civic
official.

L&T, through the Spectrum Consultants, submitted plans to the BMC for approval. The civic bridges department inspected the site and also sought reports from the public utilities. As the tunnel affects the Metro-6 project, an opinion form metro corporation has also been sought.

“The proposed tunnel road would basically benefit residents along the Saki Vihar Road. However, the BMC has decided to give approval on the condition that if required in future, it can also be opened for public use,” the official added.

The tunnel construction and maintenance will be carried out by L&T. But, all the rights regarding the use of the tunnel road will remain with the civic body, said the official.