A recent viral video showcasing patchwork on Mumbai’s ₹14,000 crore Coastal Road has ignited public concern and prompted official responses. The footage, capturing uneven repairs on the northbound stretch near Haji Ali, has led to discussions about the project’s quality and execution.
The Viral Video and Public Reaction
On February 19, 2025, a user shared a video on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), expressing disappointment over the condition of the newly constructed Coastal Road. The post stated, “This is beyond disappointing… ₹14,000 crore Coastal Road already looks like patchwork. L&T and BMC must be held accountable.” The video quickly gained traction, amassing over 2,000 reposts and nearly one million views. Many users speculated that the patchwork resulted from a rushed inauguration ahead of upcoming elections.
This is beyond disappointing. Mumbai’s ₹14000 crore Coastal Road already looks like patchwork. I feel betrayed—this was supposed to be world-class infrastructure. L&T and BMC must be held accountable. Is this what we paid for? #Mumbai #CoastalRoad #InfrastructureFail pic.twitter.com/OjxZyoDrJI
— Eternal Drift (@drifteternal_) February 19, 2025
BMC’s Clarification
In response to the growing concerns, officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) acknowledged the presence of patchwork on the Coastal Road. They attributed the issue to joints opening in the bitumen concrete laid before the monsoon season. To prevent further damage during the rains, temporary repairs were conducted using mastic asphalt. The BMC assured that these patches would be milled as necessary, and a new asphalt layer would be applied according to specified requirements.
Political Implications
The video’s circulation has also sparked political debates. Leaders from various parties have criticized the project’s management, suggesting that the rush to inaugurate the Coastal Road may have compromised its quality. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has reportedly taken note of the issue, further intensifying discussions around the project’s execution and oversight.
Project Overview
The Mumbai Coastal Road Project, spanning 10.58 kilometers, aims to alleviate traffic congestion between Marine Drive and Worli. The project has been opened in phases since March 2024 and is yet to be fully operational. Despite its partial opening, the road has already witnessed significant vehicular movement, highlighting its importance in Mumbai’s infrastructure landscape.
Conclusion
The viral video highlighting patchwork on the Mumbai Coastal Road has brought attention to the challenges of executing large-scale infrastructure projects. While the BMC has provided explanations and plans for rectification, the incident underscores the necessity for stringent quality control and transparent communication to maintain public trust in such significant undertakings.
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