Versova-Virar ₹25,285-cr project picks up pace

The feasibility report for the ₹25,285 crore Versova and Virar sea link project indicates that it will be executed in a phased manner. The first alignment length is of 83.71 km, second of 78.06 km inside the sea and 6-km in the coast. The third alignment comprises 51.80 km sea route and 29.27km in the coast. The feasibility report recommends that the Versova sea link extension should be taken up to Vasai in the first phase, while in the phase 2 part of it should be constructed up to Virar. MSRDC, the executing agency, said that this will help in completing the project with limited resources and within the stipulated time frame. The benefits of a sea link up to Vasai will help in convincing people of Virar and adjoining areas on the need for taking the sea link up to Virar. Moreover, since the alignment towards Virar passes from the ancient Arnala Fort, it will have to obtain permission from the heritage conservation authority. Hence, to a void delays, it has been advised to implement the project in a phased manner.