For the first time, an expert panel of traffic consultants is set to be established by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to address the increasing congestion on Mumbai’s roads. The initiative has been designed to create strategic solutions for improving traffic conditions while also facilitating regular traffic assessments. As an extension of the municipal traffic department, the panel is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the city’s future transportation network.
A system of empanelled engineers has already been in place for conducting structural audits of aging buildings. In a similar approach, traffic specialists are now being brought on board through an Expression of Interest (EoI) floated by the civic body. A five-year tenure has been outlined for these consultants, who will be tasked with improving the efficiency of road networks and tackling congestion-related challenges.
It has been stated by officials that the purpose of this initiative is not only to mitigate existing traffic issues but also to prepare Mumbai’s infrastructure for the future. Rapid urbanization and an ever-growing number of vehicles have made structured traffic management an urgent necessity. By engaging registered traffic consultants and subject matter experts, solutions are expected to be devised for road planning, traffic mapping, and project implementation. A permanent board of advisors is also being formed to ensure long-term continuity and eliminate the need for hiring independent consultants for each new project.
The responsibilities of the consultants have been clearly outlined in the tender documents. Micro-simulation analysis has been included among the key tasks to be performed, especially for major roads and intersections where modifications such as road widening may be proposed. Through this advanced technology, an accurate digital recreation of the city’s geography and traffic characteristics will be created, enabling a thorough evaluation of congestion points, vehicle queue formations, and travel movement patterns. Future projections for traffic conditions in 2025, 2030, and 2035 will also be made using these simulations. Assessments of Mumbai’s road networks will be conducted by the panel, with special attention given to peak traffic periods, vehicle inflow and outflow, and necessary road infrastructure enhancements. Studies on current road conditions, along with traffic forecasts for the next five and ten years, are also expected to be carried out.
The identification of missing links in the road network has been prioritized in light of Mumbai’s high vehicular density and ongoing infrastructure developments. A more streamlined and future-ready transportation system is being envisioned as a result of this initiative. Additional responsibilities assigned to the consultants include conducting parking surveys, evaluating speed and delay patterns on key roads, and assessing footpath conditions to improve pedestrian accessibility. Through these measures, efforts are being made to ensure the city’s transport infrastructure remains capable of supporting its growing population and expanding urban landscape.
Share
Tweet
