Mumbai’s transportation landscape faces a significant upheaval as the Central Railway announces the imminent closure of the Sion rail overbridge (ROB) starting March 28.
The decision to shut down the bridge for a duration of two years comes after multiple delays and interventions, with the finality of the move aiming to expedite crucial reconstruction efforts. Originally slated for demolition on January 20, the process was deferred due to local interventions, further postponed to accommodate the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinations. The closure of the Sion ROB, a vital connector between Dharavi, Bandra, Lal Bahadur Shastri Road, and Sion, will undoubtedly impact the daily commute of thousands of motorists and commuters. With at least 20 Bombay Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) bus routes set to be affected, including five routes slated for termination and 15 others to be diverted, over 10,000 commuters are expected to face disruptions.
In response to the impending closure, commuters will have to reroute their journeys, utilising alternative pathways such as the Santacruz-Chembur Link Road via Kurla and Sulochana Shetty Marg near Sion Hospital. However, challenges persist as certain routes, like the Chunabhatti-Bandra Kurla Complex connector, prohibit the passage of two and three-wheelers, necessitating strategic adjustments in transportation planning. The Central Railway aims to expedite the reconstruction process, targeting completion within 24 months from the commencement of demolition. The reconstructed bridge will witness an expansion from its current 40-metre length to 51 metre, accommodating the development of the 5th and 6th railway lines, thus optimising railway infrastructure and enhancing connectivity. As Mumbai navigates through this period of infrastructural transformation, stakeholders must adapt to the evolving transportation landscape, emphasising the importance of strategic planning, efficient resource utilisation, and stakeholder engagement to mitigate disruptions and ensure seamless connectivity for the city’s residents.
