Mumbai: MMRDA Launches TBM ‘Nayak’, To Boost Thane-Borivali Tunnel Project; Here’s What It Is

Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd (MEIL), the MMRDA-appointed contractor, has today marked an important milestone with the launch of the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) ‘Nayak’ for the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Project in the presence of the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Read on to know more about the launch.

What Is TBM, ‘Nayak’?

As per the report by the Free Press Journal, the Tunnel Boring Machine, ‘Nayak,’ launch ceremony was attended by MEIL authorities and the government of Maharashtra, setting the stage for the commencement of large-scale tunnelling works for this project. Nayak is the Tunnel Boring Machine that will be used to boost the development of the Thane-Borivali twin tunnel project.

As per the news portal, one of the most important highlights of the project is the deployment of four advanced TBMs, including one of India’s largest single-shield hardrock TBMs. The twin tunnels are being built with state-of-the-art engineering and safety standards. The project also incorporates advanced safety systems such as mechanical ventilation, smoke detection systems, and firefighting infrastructure.

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About The Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Project

The Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Project is a flagship project of the MMRDA aimed at improving east-west connectivity across Mumbai. Once completed, the 11.84 km long corridor will include 10.25 km of twin tunnels and 1.59 km of roads. The tunnel provides a direct underground link between Ghodbunder Road in Thane and the Western Express Highway in Borivali. The project is expected to reduce travel time from the current 60-90 minutes to approximately 15 minutes, offering a better and faster commute for thousands of daily users.

The project has been divided into two packages, with the Borivali side covering 5.75 km of tunnelling works and the Thande side spanning 6.09 km, including a toll plaza, viaduct and tunnels. As of August 2025, the project has achieved over 8% progress, with more advancement expected following the TBM launch.

Once completed, the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel is expected to ease traffic on Ghodbunder Road, which currently carries lakhs of passengers daily. The project will also contribute to reducing vehicular emissions and noise pollution while supporting urban development. The corridor will shorten travel distance and reduce daily traffic of around 80,000 vehicles by 2029.

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