Elphinstone Bridge Closure: Mumbai's 125-Yr-Old Iconic Bridge To Be Dismantled In Phases By July 10; Check Full Details Here

Mumbai: The dismantling of the historic Elphinstone Road overbridge (ROB) is set to commence this week, with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) rolling out a phased plan to complete the demolition by July 10. This marks the beginning of a crucial upgrade under the Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector project, with the ROB being replaced by a modern double-decker structure.

Preparatory work is already underway at the site, and the bridge will be shut for vehicles from the night of April 25. Diversions have been announced for motorists, directing traffic via Chinchpokli and Lower Parel. Signboards are in place and floodlights have reportedly been installed to support night operations.

Alternate routes for commute after Elphinstone Bridge Closure

Details On Dismantling Process

According to reports, the dismantling of approach roads, excluding the railway section, is expected to be completed by the end of May. The removal of steel girders over the railway lines will follow, depending on the availability of railway traffic blocks and is scheduled to conclude by July 10, as reported by Hindustan Times.

Heavy machinery, including cranes with lifting capacities of 800 and 500 metric tonnes, will be deployed for the work. Roughly 16,000 cubic metres of debris are expected to be cleared using poclain machines and dumpers.

Meanwhile, authorities have also confirmed that around Rs 60 crore in 'way leave' charges will be paid to the Railways to facilitate the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (MRIDC) in executing the demolition. The process is in its final stages, confirmed officials.

The Elphinstone ROB currently provides access to Prabhadevi railway station through a staircase connecting directly to Platforms 1 and 2. There’s also a small concourse with ticket counters and automatic vending machines. Railway officials have assured that commuters will be informed in advance about new access arrangements to the station once the bridge is closed.

MMRDA & WR In Co-ordination To Ease Commuter Experience

Meanwhile, MMRDA and Western Railway are jointly coordinating efforts to maintain commuter convenience. Officials stated that planning is in its final stages and alternative routes for both pedestrian and ticketing access will be communicated ahead of the closure.

Alternate Routes For Motorists After Bridge Closure

For vehicles travelling East to West:

  • Use Tilak Bridge to reach Dadar West and Dadar Market.

  • For Prabhadevi and Lower Parel, use Curry Road Bridge from 7 am to 3 pm.

  • For Coastal Road and Sea Link, use Chinchpokli Bridge.

For vehicles travelling West to East:

  • Use Tilak Bridge to reach Dadar East.

  • Vehicles heading toward Tata and KEM Hospitals must use Curry Road Bridge between 3 pm and 11 pm.

  • For traffic from Prabhadevi and Worli, use the Chinchpokli Bridge.

Once completed, the new ROB will include a lower level connected to the station and an upper deck designed as a seamless, signal-free corridor, majorly improving east-west connectivity and traffic flow in the area.

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