Vasai: To tackle the persistent traffic congestion in Vasai-Virar, the MMRDA has given administrative approval for the construction of four proposed flyovers. Work on these flyovers will begin once railway clearances are secured. These developments are anticipated to offer significant relief to the residents of Vasai.

Covering an area of 380 square kilometers, Vasai-Virar is home to approximately 2.5 million people. The city's narrow roads, coupled with an increasing number of vehicles, have led to daily traffic jams, particularly when commuting from the eastern to the western parts of the city. To address this, the idea of constructing railway overbridges (ROBs) was put forward. The municipality drafted a proposal for four railway overbridges, which was then submitted to the MMRDA for approval. The planned flyovers include locations at Umela (Vasai), Achole (Nalasopara), Alkapuri (Nalasopara), and Virat Nagar (Virar). The construction of these four flyovers is estimated to cost Rs.155 crores. However, the project has been delayed due to funding constraints.

The municipality had initially sought to fund these flyovers through the Central Government's 'Setu Bharatam' scheme. When that approach failed, MLA Hitendra Thakur took the matter up with the Chief Minister. As a result, the MMRDA has now granted administrative approval for the construction of the railway flyovers.

"We presented a detailed proposal to the MMRDA, including surveys and plans. The next step for the municipality is to obtain approval from the railways," said Pradeep Pachange, Executive Engineer. MLAs Hitendra Thakur, Kshitij Thakur, and Rajesh Patil have persistently advocated for this project to alleviate the city’s traffic congestion. Former Mayor Narayan Mankar is confident that the completion of these four railway flyovers will cut traffic congestion between the eastern and western parts of the city by 50%, offering substantial relief to residents.

Approved Railway Flyovers for Vasai-Virar:

1. Alkapuri - Between Vasai and Nalasopara railway stations

2. Oswal Nagari - Between Virar and Nalasopara railway stations

3. Virat Nagar - Between Virar and Nalasopara railway stations

4. Umela - Between Vasai and Naigaon railway stations