The Vasai-Bhayandar bridge project is progressing as the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) submitted a proposal for a double-deck bridge design to the state urban development department. This bridge aims to significantly reduce the distance between Bhayandar and Vasai from 39 km to 5 km, and travel time from 90 minutes to just 10 minutes. Estimated to cost ₹2,500 crore (approximately $300 million USD), the bridge will feature an upper deck for road traffic and a lower deck for Metro Line 13. Despite being originally planned in 2000, the project has faced delays, requiring clearances from five government agencies. Currently, three agencies have approved the project, while permissions from the state forest department and the salt commissioner are still pending. Local residents and officials emphasize the bridge's necessity due to rising population pressures and real estate developments in the area. The bridge will also provide a vital link for Panju village, which is currently only accessible by boat. Local advocates hope the project will not face further delays.