The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is set to undergo its first-ever underwater inspection since its commissioning, marking a significant step in the application of advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) technologies for critical infrastructure monitoring.
The 4.7-kilometre sea bridge, operational since 2009 and serving as a key arterial link for Mumbai’s daily commuters, will be assessed using submersible remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) equipped with high-definition cameras. The inspection aims to capture detailed visual data of submerged structural components to identify cracks, material degradation, or other structural concerns without disrupting operations.
The initiative is being undertaken by Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation, which has allocated ₹7 crore for the comprehensive inspection programme. The six-month assessment is expected to commence after January 25 and will cover all 179 foundation piers of the bridge.
The inspection scope includes a combination of visual assessment through ROVs, non-destructive testing methods, and scour surveys to evaluate underwater structural conditions. The use of ROVs represents a shift from conventional scuba-based inspections, enabling more detailed and consistent data capture in submerged environments.
While ROVs will carry out the primary inspection tasks, scuba divers will assist by removing marine growth from structural surfaces to ensure clear visibility for the imaging systems. This combined approach is intended to enhance the accuracy of inspection data and support informed maintenance decisions.
An MSRDC official highlighted that this new approach is key to safeguarding the health and safety of the Sea Link. He stressed on how the advanced technology will help detect and resolve potential structural issues in one of Mumbai’s most important infrastructure projects.
The inspection reflects a broader trend in infrastructure asset management, where advanced NDT tools and remote inspection technologies are increasingly being deployed to assess structural integrity, extend service life, and ensure public safety in large-scale transportation assets.
