Mumbai’s Historic Elphinstone ROB Gets Modern Makeover Worth ₹167 Cr.
Mumbai’s Elphinstone Road Over Bridge (ROB) in Prabhadevi, a key artery for east-west connectivity, is set for a major overhaul with a ₹167.35 crore double-decker upgrade. This ambitious project, undertaken by the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (MahaRail) under the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), aims to decongest one of the city’s busiest transit points while integrating modern infrastructure solutions.
Spanning both the Western and Central Railway lines, the new Elphinstone ROB will feature an Open Web Girder structure, renowned for its strength and durability in railway bridge construction. The lower deck will comprise 2+2 lanes with a footpath, catering to local traffic, while the upper deck, also 2+2 lanes, will seamlessly integrate into the Sewri-Worli Elevated Corridor, providing direct access to the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), also known as Atal Setu. This linkage is expected to significantly improve regional connectivity by reducing travel time between South Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. Constructed in 1913 during the British era, the original Elphinstone ROB has been a crucial element of Mumbai’s transport network for over 125 years. However, as the city’s population surged, the bridge struggled to keep pace with increasing vehicular and pedestrian movement, leading to severe congestion.
Recognising the need for modernisation, authorities have planned a state-of-the-art replacement that not only respects the historic importance of the original bridge but also ensures long-term efficiency and safety. One of the most complex aspects of the project is the dismantling of the existing bridge, which will be carried out using two 800MT cranes. Given that the work will be executed over active railway tracks, meticulous planning is required to ensure zero disruptions to suburban train services. MahaRail officials have assured that the demolition and reconstruction will follow a phased, well-coordinated approach, prioritising commuter safety and minimal traffic diversions.
Once all approvals are secured, the project is expected to be completed within a year. The new double-decker ROB is set to ease congestion, improve travel efficiency, and enhance intercity mobility, making daily commutes smoother for thousands of Mumbaikars. With Mumbai’s ever-growing urban and transport demands, projects like the Elphinstone ROB revamp mark a significant step towards a smarter, more connected city.
