Mumbai’s Infrastructure Overhaul Targets Monsoon Completion
Mumbai’s long-awaited infrastructure projects are on a fast track as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) pushes for the timely completion of vital bridges that have faced several delays over the years. These projects, including the Carnac Bunder Bridge, Gopal Krishna Gokhale Bridge, and Vikhroli Bridge, are crucial to easing congestion in the city’s highly trafficked areas.
The delay has been a source of significant inconvenience for the daily commuters, but BMC authorities are now racing against time to ensure these bridges are ready before the monsoon season. In a crucial review meeting, BMC officials, along with representatives from the Mumbai Traffic Police, BEST, and the Railways Authority, addressed the need for better coordination among all agencies involved in the bridge construction. Additional Municipal Commissioner Abhijeet Bangar, who chaired the meeting, stressed the importance of a coordinated effort to meet the tight deadlines. He also noted that the projects could be derailed by delays in key tasks such as demolitions, clearance of encroachments, and the relocation of utility lines.
Among the various bridge projects under review, the Gokhale Bridge in Andheri is expected to open by April 30, 2025, with the railway work already completed. The Carnac Bunder Bridge, a critical connector in South Mumbai, is slated for completion by June 10, 2025. However, the Belasis Bridge, situated in Mumbai Central, which was initially projected to be completed by April 2026, has now been fast-tracked, with a new target set for December 2025. The Sion bridge, another important project, is facing delays due to pending demolitions and the need to remove several encroachments and structures that are blocking its path. Bangar has directed that these obstacles be cleared by May 31, 2026, and warned that the inconvenience to citizens must be kept to a minimum. Significant efforts are underway to expedite the removal of structures such as public toilets, hoardings, and other infrastructure that could slow down the progress.
For the Vidyavihar Bridge, significant progress has been made, with both girders successfully installed. However, work on the remaining segments requires the removal of several structures on the eastern side of the railway station. BMC officials are also working on constructing a new ramp on the western side to facilitate smoother pedestrian traffic. As the clock ticks towards the monsoon, BMC’s emphasis on collaboration and timely execution of these projects is expected to transform Mumbai’s connectivity. The completion of these critical bridges will significantly alleviate traffic congestion and improve commuter experience in key parts of the city.
