Mumbai Launches India's First Musical Road on Coastal Road
Mumbai has made history by introducing what is being hailed as India's first musical road, a groundbreaking installation on the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Coastal Road. This innovative 500-meter stretch has been developed on the northbound carriageway, strategically positioned between Nariman Point and Worli, just after vehicles exit the Coastal Road tunnel.
Inauguration and Key Details
The project was officially inaugurated by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in a ceremony attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. This marks a significant milestone in urban infrastructure, blending engineering with artistic expression to enhance the driving experience.
How the Musical Road Works
The musical road functions through specially designed rumble strips that have been meticulously carved into the asphalt at precise intervals and depths. When vehicles travel over these grooves at a speed of approximately 60 to 80 kilometers per hour, the interaction between the tyres and the road surface produces vibrations. These vibrations generate sound waves that recreate the iconic tune of 'Jai Ho', the Academy Award-winning song composed by A.R. Rahman for the film Slumdog Millionaire.
To ensure safety and prepare drivers, the BMC has installed signboards at 500 meters, 100 meters, and 60 meters ahead of the musical stretch, including within the tunnel section. This proactive measure helps alert motorists to the unique feature, allowing them to adjust their speed accordingly for optimal sound production.
Global Context and Significance
The concept of melody roads was first identified in Japan in 2007 and has since been implemented in a select few countries, including Hungary, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. Mumbai's installation is the first of its kind in India, positioning the city at the forefront of innovative road technology in the region. This development not only adds a creative touch to urban travel but also showcases India's growing capabilities in adopting and adapting global innovations for local contexts.
By integrating such features, Mumbai aims to enhance road safety through controlled speed zones while providing an entertaining and memorable experience for commuters. The musical road represents a fusion of engineering precision and cultural resonance, making everyday journeys more engaging.
