Navi Mumbai traffic authorities and the Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport undertaking have begun preparations for the demolition of the remaining sections of the Turbhe flyover, with alternative routes being examined and bus stops near Nerul LP shifted by 50 metres in both directions.
The traffic department is assessing whether vehicles travelling from Thane towards Vashi may be diverted through the Nerul LP underpass once the remaining portions of the flyover are dismantled. A traffic management plan and alternative routes are being discussed with the Public Works Department before demolition work on the two remaining sections begins, Loksatta reported.
The Turbhe flyover has three sections. Work on the first section is already under way, while the demolition of the other two sections is expected to affect traffic movement in the area. Authorities are therefore examining how vehicles can be redirected and how congestion can be managed before the next stage of the work starts.
The possible diversion has increased attention on the Nerul LP junction, which could face additional traffic from vehicles travelling between Thane and Vashi. To reduce the risk of congestion around the existing bus stop locations, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport undertaking has moved stops serving both directions approximately 50 metres ahead of their previous positions.
The bus stop for services travelling towards Panvel has been shifted 50 metres forward from its earlier location. The stop for buses travelling towards Vashi has also been moved by about 50 metres. Poles have been installed at the new locations to mark the revised stopping points.
Drivers and conductors from the Turbhe, Asudgaon and Ghansoli depots have been instructed to pick up and drop off passengers at the new locations. The change is intended to keep buses away from the area where traffic movement may increase because of the proposed diversion and flyover demolition activity.
The report did not specify the final date for demolition of the remaining two sections or confirm the final diversion route. Those details are expected to be settled through discussions between the traffic department and the Public Works Department before the next phase begins.
