After the Prime Minister’s Office took note of a viral video showing substandard patchwork repairs on the northbound stretch of the Mumbai Coastal Road near Haji Ali, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has begun removing the protective mastic layer from the main bridge and underpass at Haji Ali. This layer was originally applied as a precautionary measure under the Dharmaveer Swarajyarakshak Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Mumbai Coastal Road (South) Project.
Once the mastic layer is removed, a fresh asphalt surface will be laid within one to two days.
The Rs 14,000-crore Mumbai Coastal Road (South) Project faced criticism after the video of the patchwork went viral. However, the BMC has assured that the road is structurally sound, with no cracks or potholes. The visible patches were part of the protective mastic layer applied before the monsoon as a preventive measure.
“The road was asphalted before July 2024. However, some expansion joints had widened in certain sections. To prevent further widening and enhance durability, an additional mastic layer was applied in key areas. This layer was meant to protect the asphalt from monsoon damage and prevent potholes,” stated the BMC’s Public Relations Department.
As of February 22, 2025, the BMC has started removing the mastic layer. The process is being carried out swiftly, and once completed, the affected sections will be resurfaced with fresh asphalt within one to two days.