Bottom Line Up Front
The Maharashtra government skipped the usual pothole‑fixing routine and laid a musical road on Mumbai’s coastal highway, letting drivers hear a tune as they cruise.
India’s First Musical Road – Government Chooses Tunes Over Repairs
Image: India’s First Musical Road – Government Chooses Tunes Over Repairs – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
Unlike ordinary asphalt, the road features a series of raised metal strips cut into a pattern that produces notes when a car’s tires roll over them. The design mimics similar installations in the Netherlands and the United States, but it’s the first of its kind in India. At night, LED lights outline the musical lane, creating a visual cue that blends safety with spectacle.
Key Visual Features
- Bright LED edging for night‑time visibility.
- Colored paint marks the musical section, separating it from regular traffic.
- Clear signage warns drivers about the upcoming tune.
Performance & Mileage
There’s no engine under the road, but the “performance” matters for drivers. The rhythm is audible at speeds of 30‑40 km/h, encouraging slower, more controlled driving – a subtle way to reduce accidents on a busy stretch. While the musical strips don’t affect fuel consumption, the enforced lower speed can improve mileage marginally, especially for heavy‑weight vehicles that usually gulp more fuel in stop‑and‑go traffic.
Driving Experience
- Drivers report a pleasant surprise when the melody starts.
- The sound fades if you exceed 50 km/h, prompting you to slow down.
- Local commuters have turned the tune into a social media meme, boosting road‑side tourism.
Price & Rivals
Installing a musical road costs roughly ₹2 crore per kilometre, according to state sources. That’s higher than a standard resurfacing project, but officials argue the added tourism and safety benefits justify the expense. As of now, no other Indian state has announced a similar project, making Maharashtra the sole pioneer.
Cost Breakdown
- Materials (metal strips, LED fixtures): 45%
- Labor and installation: 35%
- Design, testing, and signage: 20%
Quick Specs
| Engine | Mileage | Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| N/A | N/A (speed‑dependent safety) | ≈ ₹2 crore per km | Musical strips, LED lighting, traffic‑calming effect |
FAQ
What tune does the musical road play?
The road plays a short, catchy melody that repeats every 30 metres. It’s designed to be recognizable but not irritating.
Is the musical road safe for all vehicles?
Yes. The strips are engineered to withstand heavy trucks and buses. The sound is only audible at moderate speeds, encouraging safer driving.
Will other Indian states adopt musical roads?
Officials say they are monitoring the project’s impact. If traffic safety improves and tourism spikes, similar installations could appear elsewhere.
What do you think about turning roads into musical experiences? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
