The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) in India is planning to invite bids for the Rs83bn ($1.6bn) Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) project.

The project involves the construction of an eight-lane bridge across the sea through the Mumbai Harbour and construction of connecting roads at both ends.

The 22km harbour link will span from Sewri in the north-eastern part of Mumbai to Nhava Sheva port across the creek to relieve traffic congestion in Mumbai.

The project also involves construction of five flyovers.

The MMRDA has already conducted a techno-economic feasibility study for the project in collaboration with Arup Consulting Engineers and KPMG in August 2011.

MMRDA officials said talks are in the progress to get funding from the World Bank for the MTHL project.