A new four-lane bridge linking Karanja (Uran) and Revas (Alibaug) over Dharamtar Creek promises to reduce the travel time between the two regions to just 30 minutes. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde performed the Bhoomi puja for the project shortly before the election code of conduct was implemented. Currently, the 70 km journey takes about two hours.
The bridge is part of the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation’s (MSRDC) ambitious Revas-Redi Coastal Highway project, spanning 498 km and aimed at enhancing connectivity from Raigad to Sindhudurg district. This project includes seven bridges to facilitate smoother travel across the coastal regions.
The Karanja-Revas bridge, estimated to cost ₹3,057 crore, will stretch 10.25 km, featuring a 2.04 km bridge over Dharamtar Creek. It will be 29.50 meters wide, accommodating vehicles at speeds up to 80 km/h, and will include 1.5-meter-wide pathways on either side. Additionally, a 5.13 km approach road will connect Karanja to the bridge, with a 3.08 km road leading from the bridge to Revas.
In addition to cutting travel time, the bridge is expected to significantly boost the economy of the coastal Konkan region by shortening the distance from Jawaharlal Nehru Port to Alibag from 55 km to about 30 km.
Pradeep Mhatre, a local resident, highlighted the advantages for residents of Uran and Panvel, who will be able to reach Alibag in just over half an hour, saving both time and money. Those coming from Alibaug will also gain direct access to the proposed Navi Mumbai International Airport and the JN Port area.
CM Shinde emphasized the bridge’s transformative potential, stating, “This will be a game-changer for residents and tourists traveling from Mumbai to Murud and other Konkan destinations, improving transit times and boosting economic activities by facilitating easier access to coastal areas.”