Mumbai: The BMC has expedited work on two key railway overbridges (ROBs) in Mumbai after delays spanning several years. The Carnac Bunder bridge in the island city is a priority, with the BMC aiming to launch the second girder for the block on January 18 and 19, in an effort to meet the project deadline of May 31, 2025.
The Gopal Krishna Gokhale bridge in Andheri is also under development, with work on the approach road and pillar erection currently underway. However, civic officials have expressed concerns that further delays could extend the completion timelines for both projects, potentially jeopardising their planned openings.
The 154-year-old Carnac Bunder ROB, connecting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Masjid Bunder, was closed to heavy vehicles in 2014. Its reconstruction has faced delays due to ongoing work on Hancock Bridge and issues with encroachments.
A senior civic official stated, “Over 80% of the work on the bridge has been completed, with the first girder installed, and steel components for the second girder already on site. We have requested the Central Railway administration for a block on January 18 and 19, 2025. Upon receiving the railway block, we anticipate completing the installation of the second girder by January 19, 2025. However, this depends on the block approval from the railways; if not granted, the deadline may be extended.”
The other crucial east-west connector in Andheri has successfully completed the lowering of the second girder. Currently, work on both the east and west side approach roads is in progress. A civic official mentioned that if the erection of the pillars is completed by February 15, the bridge will be fully operational by April 30. However, this timeline could be extended by a month if necessary.
Meanwhile, Dhaval Shah of the Lokhandwala Oshiwara Citizens Association stated, “The lowering of the second girder, initially expected to be completed by November 15, was finished only on December 26, 2024. Work on the pillars near the railway portion will commence once the machinery is removed and the site is handed over to the BMC contractor. However, several tasks remain that may not be completed by April 30.”
Carnac Bunder – length 70 metres, Width 26.5 metres
Reconstruction cost – Rs 49 crores.
Original Deadline – June 2024
New deadline – May 2025
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Gokhale bridge – length – 90 metres, width 13.5 metres.
Reconstruction cost – Rs 90 crores.
Original Deadline – May 2023
New deadline – April 2025
