Mumbai Coastal Road: BMC Issues Maintenance Tender Amid Public Criticism Over Patchwork Repairs

Just months after the Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP) became fully operational, the BMC has issued a tender for the maintenance of the stretch from Marine Drive to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL). In the beginning of March, viral videos showing patchwork repairs on the northbound stretch near Haji Ali, the bridge towards Worli, and inside the twin tunnels led to public criticism of the BMC.

According to senior civic official, a contractor will be appointed for the road’s operation and maintenance over the next five years, with the contract estimated to cost up to Rs 84 crore. The BMC has completed 95% of the project, with both carriageways now open for smooth traffic flow.

"A contractor will be responsible for road repairs and resurfacing, upgrading and maintaining fire safety systems, regular upkeep of essential tunnel facilities, and general maintenance, including the SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system," said a senior civic official.

He further stated that five companies have submitted bids for developing 70 hectares of land. "We will evaluate the Expressions of Interest (EoIs) and select the proposal that best aligns with our vision. An MoU will be signed with the chosen firm, with no financial commitment from our side," he added.

A pre-bid meeting for potential contractors, led by the Chief Engineer (Coastal Road), is scheduled for April 25, followed by the tender opening on April 28.

The Mumbai Coastal Road has been opening in phases since March 2024 and is still awaiting full commissioning. The northbound carriage of the bow-string bridge, which connects the Coastal Road to the BWSL, was opened for vehicular traffic on January 27, 2025.