Bandra-Worli Sea Link: Bridge That Connects Suburbs Of Mumbai

Mumbai is one of the most overcrowded cities in India; most people say, “The one who can survive in Mumbai can survive in any corner of the world. In Mumbai, transportation is the biggest concern. Regarding transportation, did you know about the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, which connects two different corners of Mumbai and is known as one of the longest bridges in India? Let’s explore this Mumbai-Bandra Sea Link in India in more detail.

About Bandra-Worli Sea Link

The Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai, also known as the Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link, is the longest sea bridge in Mumbai and is registered under the top five bridges in India. The Mumbai Bandra-Worli Sea Link connects the two corners of the Western Suburbs of Bandra and the Worli region located in the Southern part of Mumbai. Another interesting fact about the Bandra-Worli Sea Link is that the bridge is a 5.6 km, eight-lane, cable-stayed bridge.

The Bandra-Worli Sea Link was made for the Western Freeway that connects the Nareeman Point and Western Suburbs of Mumbai; however, it became part of the coastal route of Mumbai. The reason behind making this Mumbai Bandra-Worli Sea Link is to reduce the travel time between Bandra and Worli during the peak hours to only 10-15 minutes. According to the reports, the Bandra-Worli Sea Link carries around thirty thousand vehicles daily. 

History of Mumbai Bandra-Worli Sea Link

If we look at the history of the Mumbai Bandra-Worli Sea Link, there was only one route to connect the western suburbs of Mumbai and the central region of Mumbai. This route was heavily overcrowded during peak hours, and it took more than hours to clear the traffic and reach a particular destination.

Hence, the western freeway project was proposed to reduce the traffic congestion from the coastline of the west, and the Mumbai Bandra-Worli Sea Link was established on 30th June 2009.

However, all eight lanes of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai became operational on 24th March 2010. According to reports, the construction of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai cost more than sixteen billion and was commissioned by Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation Limited.

The Architecture Of The Bandra-Worli Sea Link In Mumbai

Looking at the architecture of the Mumbai Bandra-Worli Sea Link, the bridge was designed by the renowned architect Seshadri Srinivasan, and the Hindustan Construction Company constructed it in 2000. The Mumbai Bandra-Worli Sea Link is standing over Mahim Bay.

If we look closer at the design of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai, it was designed as the first cable-stayed bridge constructed on the open sea of India. Massive viaducts and cables supported the bridgeless duct of the Mumbai Bandra-Worli Sea Link.

It is also said that the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai can withstand an earthquake of more than 6.0 Richter Scale. The Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai has enormous diamond-shaped towers of 128 meters that support the bridge.

Looking at the cables of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai, the cable structure looks like a semi-harp arrangement. The Bandra channel has a 600-meter cable, and the Worli channel has a 250-meter cable and has a superstructure at the centre of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai that supports the bridge.

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Bandra-Worli Sea Link Toll Price

If the sea link is this much longer and opened with eight lanes, there must be a Bandra-worli sea link toll price to pay. So, yes, you must pay the Bandra-worli sea link toll price if you are using the bridge. Here are some of them: 

1. Cars

The cars have to pay the toll price of Rs.85 for a single Journey and Rs127 for the return journey. Even the vehicles can opt for a day pass for Rs 212. 

2. Tempo/LCV

The Tempos have to pay the toll price of Rs 130 for a single and Rs 195 for the return, and the day pass will cost Rs.325

3. Trucks and Buses

The Trucks and Buses must pay Rs 175 and Rs. 262 for the return journey. The day pass will cost up to Rs. 435. Bandra-worli sea link toll price may vary; hence, it is suggested that the toll price be ensured accordingly. You must also know that pedestrian entry is not allowed to avoid uncertainty on the road. 

Places To Visit Near Bandra-Worli Sea Link

1. Bandstand, Bandra

The Bandra Bandstand, or The Bandstand, is one of the most visited places in the Bandra region of Mumbai. It is one of the best spots for hangouts. The food junctions and street snack centres surround the Bandstand promenade. A bandstand is where you can sit and relax or take pictures of the beautiful skyline adjacent to the sea. The bandstand remains crowded because of the residence of Shah Rukh Khan.

The Bandstand also has an amphitheatre hosting various cultural events and concerts. This place is just a short distance from Bandra Fort and the sea link; hence, it is one of the most popular places to spend evenings near the sea. 

2. Mount Mary Church

Another beautiful place that you can visit near the Bandra-Worli Sea Link is the Mount Mary Church of Bandra. The full name of Mount Mary Church is “The Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount.” It is a Roman Catholic Church located at a distance of 262 feet above sea level. You will also get a mesmerizing view of the Arabian Sea at this place. People of all faiths crowd Mount Mary to seek blessings and attain peace and tranquillity.

This Church is surrounded by various shops such as wax figurines, flower shops, candles, and other offering shops. It’s a belief that the person who offers a wax figurine to Mother Mary and their wishes are granted by her.

3. Carter Road

Located next to the Bandstand of Bandra, Carter Road is one of the best places to hang out in Mumbai. This road is crowded with local cuisines and eateries on the sidewalk, and you will also find a wide range of pubs nearby and a coastline that catches your eye. You will get mesmerizing views of the Arabian Sea from here as well.

It is also said that Carted Road is one of the cleanest and poshest colonies in Mumbai, and the property prices are always higher than in other locations in Mumbai. You will also observe a few parks with jogger’s strips in the Carter Road Area.

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Hotels Near Bandra-Worli Sea Link: 

 If you are travelling in Mumbai and looking for hotels near the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, then here are some hotels that you can look for:

1. The Fern Residency, Mumbai

At a distance of 8 km from the sea link, you will find The Fern Residency in the Chembur region of Mumbai. This hotel has more than 80 designed guest rooms that showcase the designs of Indian scripts. The Fern Residency is known for its luxury experience for every visitor. They provide amenities like a gymnasium, internet, free breakfasts, and rooms that meet your requirements.

2. Taj Lands End, Mumbai

At a very minute distance of 1 km from the sea link, you can visit the Taj Lands End hotel at the centre of Bandra. The Taj Lands End is famous for its luxury experience to visitors and is known for the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and city life views. Taj Lands End is at your service 24/7, which makes this hotel different from other hotels. They provide amenities: bathrobes, suitable suites, premium rooms that fit your budget, and much more.

Restaurants Near Bandra-Worli Sea Link 

You have visited various places near the bridge and are now hungry. So here are a few restaurants near Bandra-Worli Sea Link to comfort your appetite. 

1. Masala Bay, Mumbai

At a distance of 1 km from the sea link, you will find the Masala Bay restaurant at the centre of the Bandra region. This restaurant is known for its value-for-money dishes, and menus include Indian cuisines and special diets for vegetarians and vegans; it also serves gluten-free meals. 

2. Ming Yang, Mumbai

You can find the Ming Yang restaurant near the Bandstand area, known for its good food and value-for-money services. The Ming Yang restaurant offers a variety of Asian cuisines, such as Chinese and Cantonese cuisines, at an affordable price. Even the Ming Yang restaurant has vegan and gluten-free options for people.

Conclusion

The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is one of the longest bridges connecting the two corners of Mumbai and gives the most beautiful view of the Arabian Sea. So whenever you visit Mumbai, remember to see the Sea-Link.

Frequently Asked Questions