Trans- harbour project will change the economics of the state.It will not only improve connectivity but also provide huge land parcels : Forty-three years after it was first conceived, the state government has finally decided to construct the Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link on its own if it does not receive a bid on August 5. Sources said chief minister Prithviraj Chavan has made it clear that the government will no longer wait to find a partner to execute the Rs 10,000 crore project.U P S Madan, metropolitan commissioner, Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), said this time the government will not let the project fall for want of funds. "If we do not receive any bids on August 5 then we shall go on our own,' he said.The 22km link across the sea will begin at Sewri in South Mumbai and terminate at Chirle village near Nhava Sheva passing over the Thane creek. It will not only open up the hinterland but will make available land-a commodity that is acutely in short supply in Mumbai. The link will change the economics of the state, said administrators.Madan said the authority was exploring various possible options in case no bids are received on August 5. "We cannot say that no bid will come but in the event it does not we are working on other options. We are carrying out comparative studies and also considering constructing the bridge on a direct cash contract basis. So far it has not firmed up," he said.The MMRDA had shortlisted five bidders who were to submit bids by May 24. This was extended to July 5 and then again to August 5.Pankaj Kapoor, managing director, Liases Foras, a realty research firm, said the MTHL was "extremely crucial" for the city. "It will make the city circular. It will open up very large parcels of land in Navi Mumbai, Panvel and sub-regions of Uran. It will moderate land prices. The government, if it plans well, can create affordable housing as travel time will reduce to 30-40 minutes against 2.5 hours to Karjat and Vasai- Virar.' Urban planner Prakash Apte said it would be counter-productive. "The rich will buy palatial homes in the hinterland and travel to work in south Mumbai.'
Posted on: Sun, 21 Jul 2013 06:32:05 +0000
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