Sion ROB Reconstruction Progress at 10% Amid BMC-Central Railway Disputes
The reconstruction of the Sion Road Overbridge (ROB), a crucial infrastructure project in Mumbai, has seen dismal progress, with only 10% work completed since the bridge was closed to traffic in August 2024. The delays, attributed to unresolved issues between the Central Railway (CR) and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), have drawn public ire as commuters face extended disruptions.
The British-era ROB is being rebuilt as part of a larger initiative to add fifth and sixth railway lines between Parel and Kurla, aimed at improving suburban rail capacity. However, multiple obstacles have brought the project to a near standstill. On the east side, unresolved hurdles include the removal of four trees, clearance of four structures in Dharavi, and the relocation of a toilet block on the footpath. The latter has become a contentious issue, as it is occupied by an individual with a metered electricity connection, complicating eviction and demolition efforts. Additionally, the closure of an underpass on the Dharavi side is required for piling work on the bridge’s west side. Overhead cables, electrical utilities, and a large hoarding structure on the east side further add to the logistical challenges.
The diversion of drainage lines, relocation of water pipelines, and road closures near the BMC quarters in Dharavi are still pending approval, causing significant delays. Once completed, the revamped Sion ROB will boast a span of 49 metres, up from the current 30 metres, to eliminate obstructions caused by its old pillars. The width will remain at 29 metres. However, CR officials have warned that demolition alone could take two more months, followed by an 18-month reconstruction period, pushing the completion timeline well into 2026. Despite repeated requests, coordination between CR and BMC remains poor, leaving the project in limbo. With commuters relying on alternative routes and traffic snarls worsening, the public has demanded faster resolution of bureaucratic bottlenecks to expedite the project.