Mumbai: The coastal road tunnel in Mumbai, India’s first undersea tunnel, has raised safety concerns after evidence of seepage was discovered less than three months since its opening. The twin tunnels, running 17 to 20 meters below sea level with a diameter of 12.19 meters, have been in use since March 11, accommodating over 7 lakh vehicles so far.

Videos of the seepage surfaced on social media, sparking worries about the tunnel's integrity, especially with the monsoon season looming. The cause of the leakage remains unclear and is currently under investigation.

Maharashtra CM Shinde Assures No Immediate Threat 

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who inspected the site, assured the public that there is no immediate threat to the tunnel's structure. He stated that the leakage, detected at two to three locations, will be addressed using specialized technology, ensuring no disruption to commuters even during the rainy season.

“I immediately called the commissioner. There is leakage at two-three places. The authorities have spoken to experts and there is no threat to the original structure,” Shinde said. 

Seepage Issue Draws Attention to the Past 

The incident has drawn attention to previous water ingress issues in Mumbai's infrastructure, notably the flooding of the pedestrian underpass at Haji Ali Coastal Road in April. The incident had unleashed a flood of criticism against the Mumbai civic body Brihanmumbai Corporation. 

Commute From Girgaon to Worli in Just 10 mins 

The Coastal Road -- part of the city's masterplan developed in 1967 -- was inaugurated by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his Deputies, Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar. The second phase of coastal road will be opened by June 10, Shinde had stated earlier.

The 2.07 km tunnel, connecting Girgaon to Breach Candy's Priyadarshini Park, has significantly reduced commute times, with travel from Girgaon to Worli now taking just 10 minutes instead of the previous 45.