The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is on the verge of opening the crucial alignment between Andheri’s Gokhale Bridge and CD Barfiwala Flyover, aiming for a July 1 deadline pending the outcome of rigorous load bearing tests conducted by the Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI).
Initiated in April this year, the project aimed to integrate the Gokhale Bridge and CD Barfiwala Flyover into a seamless traffic corridor, necessitating meticulous structural adjustments including the installation of new bearings and elevation adjustments. Despite the challenges posed by the monsoon season, BMC officials persevered, ensuring completion of structural enhancements while adhering to stringent railway guidelines. Sunday night saw the culmination of critical load tests conducted by VJTI to assess the bridge’s capacity to withstand vehicular loads. “The decision to open the bridge to traffic hinges on the results of these tests,” affirmed a senior BMC official, underlining the significance of the technical evaluation. While structural and physical works have been concluded, final preparations including lane markings, painting, and height barrier installations are currently underway. BMC officials remain optimistic about meeting the impending deadline, emphasizing their commitment to delivering safe and efficient infrastructure solutions amidst stringent timelines.
Constructed in 2008, the CD Barfiwala Flyover was designed to streamline traffic flow originating from Juhu and linking with the north-south arms of the Gokhale Bridge. The demolition of the old Gokhale Bridge in 2022 necessitated the construction of a new elevated structure, resulting in alignment challenges that required careful engineering solutions. Throughout the project’s execution, BMC navigated administrative complexities, including seeking approval from the Election Commission of India to proceed with construction during the Lok Sabha election period, underscoring their dedication to timely project completion and civic enhancement. As Mumbai awaits the outcome of the crucial load tests, BMC’s meticulous approach underscores its commitment to ensuring infrastructure reliability and safety, setting a benchmark for effective urban development initiatives in the region.
