Protests push MMRDA to alter Borivali-Thane twin tunnel plan

In a major development, the unity of over 10,000 citizens in Mulla Baug forced the political leadership and administrative authorities to change the location of the Borivali-Thane twin tunnel opening at the Thane end.

- Anamika Gharat and Swapnasaurabha Kulshrestha

THANE: Deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday directed MMRDA to extend the Thane-Borivali tunnel alignment by 225 metres up to the Satya Shankar wall instead of terminating it at Mulla Baug.

The decision, aimed at easing the severe dust, noise, and traffic congestion in the residential area, came after repeated demands by the Project Affected People (PAP) Core Committee—a group that includes former MMRDA engineers and retired government officers. The committee had persistently advocated for environmentally responsible measures and alternatives, including underground construction and a safer muck disposal system.