India's first undersea tunnel, part of the Mumbai Coastal Road project, is facing scrutiny after leaks were discovered just two months after opening. The twin tunnels, running 17-20 meters below sea level, showed seepage at several points, particularly near the Princess Street Flyover on the southbound side.
Videos circulating on social media fueled worries about the tunnel's safety, especially with the monsoon season approaching. The leaks reportedly reappeared after having been identified and addressed during testing.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde visited the site and assured the public that the leaks posed no threat to the tunnel's structural integrity. Authorities are consulting with experts to determine the cause and implement a permanent solution using "specific technology." Shinde emphasized that repairs would not disrupt traffic flow.
The incident has cast a shadow over the project, which is touted as a major infrastructure achievement. The leaks raise questions about construction quality and planning, particularly in light of the upcoming monsoon.