Mumbai unveils india’s first melody road, stretch plays ‘JAI HO’ when vehicles maintain specific speed

Mumbai: In a unique blend of engineering innovation and cinematic nostalgia, Mumbai has unveiled India’s first “Melody Road” on the Dharmaveer Swarajyarakshak Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Coastal Road. Inaugurated on February 11, 2026, by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the 500-metre musical stretch on the northbound carriageway from Nariman Point towards Worli plays the Oscar-winning anthem “Jai Ho” by A.R. Rahman when vehicles pass over it at a steady speed of 70–80 km/h.

The technology, developed with Hungarian engineering expertise, involves precisely carved rumble strips embedded into the asphalt. As tyres roll over these specially spaced grooves, they create vibrations that generate musical notes through friction — allowing the melody to be heard clearly inside the vehicle without external speakers.

Driving too fast makes the tune sound high-pitched and rushed, while going too slow distorts the rhythm, encouraging motorists to maintain optimal speed. Installed with advance signage at 500m, 100m, and 60m before the zone, the project — costing approximately Rs.6.21 crore plus GST — aims to enhance the driving experience while subtly promoting speed discipline. With this innovation, India becomes the fifth country after Japan, Hungary, South Korea, and the UAE to introduce a musical road, turning an everyday commute into a patriotic and immersive journey.