Set for inauguration on February 9, a section of the ambitious coastal road project by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is poised to be unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Originally intended for a groundbreaking ceremony led by Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray, the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) expedited inauguration of the road has aroused curiosity, particularly against the backdrop of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and the implementation of the election code of conduct.

According to reports, the designated stretch for inauguration runs southbound from Worli to Marine Drive. Spanning from Princess Street in Marine Drive to the Worli end of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, this coastal road aims to address the long-standing issue of traffic congestion.

The coastal road will be operational on weekdays from 8 am to 8 pm but will be closed on weekends to facilitate ongoing construction work. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has rejected the proposed toll of Rs 85 for using the coastal road.

The comprehensive project cost of Rs 13,984 crore includes a construction expenditure of Rs 9,384 crore. The remaining funds are allocated to administrative charges, physical infrastructure, water and sewerage facilities, cost contingencies, supervision, compensation for mangroves, and the relocation of utilities. Currently, the overall progress of the project stands at 84 percent.