Introduction:

Mumbai, the city of dreams and bustling streets, is on the brink of a transformative transportation revolution with the imminent inauguration of the Breeze Candy twin tunnels. A crucial segment of the Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP), these tunnels promise to reshape the city’s travel dynamics. An exclusive drive-through conducted by The Indian Express offers an exciting glimpse into the groundbreaking journey from Marine Drive to Breach Candy, all set to become a reality in just 3.20 minutes.

The Twin Tunnels – A Marvel in the Making:

The Breeze Candy twin tunnels, spanning an impressive 2.07 kilometers, stand as a testament to Mumbai’s commitment to enhancing connectivity. Part of the larger MCRP, these tunnels are poised to revolutionize the commute from Marine Drive to Breach Candy. Starting near Girgaon, the tunnels extend beneath the Arabian Sea, Girgaon Chowpatty, Malabar Hill, and conclude at Breach Candy’s Priyadarshini Park.

Inauguration and Operational Hours:

Anticipation surrounds the official inauguration of these toll-free tunnels, scheduled for the second week of February. The significant highlight is the substantial reduction in travel time, slashing over 26 minutes off the journey from Marine Drive to Breach Candy. Operational initially between 8 am and 8 pm on weekdays, the MCRP strategically aims to ease traffic congestion during peak hours.

MCRP’s Larger Vision:

The Mumbai Coastal Road Project unfolds as a visionary infrastructure boost for the city. Its grand objective is to connect Marine Drive to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, significantly reducing travel time from nearly an hour during peak hours to just under 10 minutes. The corridor’s seamless integration with suburban Dahisar through a toll-free freeway marks a milestone in enhancing connectivity along Mumbai’s western coast.

Tunnel Engineering Marvel:

The engineering marvel of the Breeze Candy twin tunnels is truly awe-inspiring. Boasting the title of the widest cylindrical tunnels in India, with a diameter of 11 meters each, the construction involved two years of meticulous work using a Tunnel Boring Machine. Spanning a distance of 900 meters, the tunnels reach depths of 17-20 meters below sea level, with the deepest point residing approximately 67 meters beneath Malabar Hill. The oval fiberglass canopy at the entry and exit points mirrors the iconic C-shaped Marine Drive promenade.

Safety Measures and Innovations:

Safety takes center stage in the design of these tunnels. Equipped with digital signages, counter-beam lights, and an automated fire detection system, the tunnels prioritize the well-being of commuters. A notable safety feature includes multiple cross-passages, strategically positioned at intervals of 300 meters, allowing pedestrians and motorists to traverse from one tunnel to another during emergencies. To enhance fire safety, the tunnels feature pressurized fire hydrants, a ventilation system designed for smoke control, and the innovative Saccardo ventilation system.

Saccardo Ventilation System: A Breath of Fresh Air:

The introduction of the Saccardo ventilation system marks a revolutionary step in ensuring a constant flow of fresh air throughout the tunnels. With three Saccardo ventilation fans in each tunnel, the activation of the third fan is reserved exclusively for emergency situations, underscoring the project’s commitment to ensuring a secure and efficient transportation network.

Conclusion:

As the Breeze Candy twin tunnels near their official inauguration, Mumbai anticipates a paradigm shift in its transportation landscape. The MCRP, with its forward-thinking approach, is set to redefine the city’s connectivity, offering a faster and more efficient journey for Mumbaikars. The Soulful Page will be your guide to the unfolding story of this groundbreaking project, providing updates on how it promises to reshape Mumbai’s coastal travel experience. Stay tuned for more on this monumental transformation.