The proposed Uttan-Virar Sea Bridge has cleared a significant regulatory hurdle with the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) granting Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance, according to a report by News18.

This approval paves the way for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to begin work on what is set to be one of Maharashtra’s largest infrastructure projects. The 42.75 km-long bridge will span the Arabian Sea, connecting Uttan, MSEB, and Virar—three key coastal locations. Formerly known as the Versova-Virar sea link, the project covers 68.8 lakh sq. mtrs, with a major portion falling within the ecologically sensitive CRZ-4 marine zone.

The bridge is expected to significantly reduce travel time and ease congestion for lakhs of commuters who currently endure long, crowded routes between Mumbai and its northern suburbs. To mitigate the environmental impact, the MMRDA has agreed to comply with 27 stringent conditions aimed at protecting the coastal and marine ecosystem.