Vikhroli Bridge Completion Delayed for Over Six Years
The Vikhroli road-over-bridge (ROB), a crucial link connecting the east and west of Mumbai, has been marred by delays stretching over six years. Originally conceived in 1997, the bridge’s completion is now expected just before the monsoon, after years of stalled progress and escalating costs.The idea of constructing a new bridge to replace the dangerous level crossing at Vikhroli first gained traction in the late 1990s when the Central Railway sanctioned the proposal.
Over time, multiple agencies, including the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), and the railways, were involved. However, the project faced numerous delays due to a lack of coordination and shifting responsibilities. The situation worsened as the level crossing, used by over a lakh pedestrians daily, became a site of frequent accidents, further intensifying the demand for a new bridge.Despite this, work on the bridge did not commence until 2012, and even then, progress was slow. In 2018, after several years of discussions, BMC issued a work order, with the project initially estimated at ₹45 crore. However, delays continued as land acquisition issues, encroachments, and design changes caused further setbacks.
The design evolved from a pre-stressed concrete girder to a steel girder structure, which required more time for installation and construction. The project’s cost skyrocketed as a result, rising to ₹97 crore by the time work finally began in 2021.While major work on the east side is nearing completion and asphalting is underway, officials are optimistic that the bridge will be ready for use before the monsoon. However, concerns remain about the local infrastructure. The narrow approach roads in areas like Tagore Nagar and Kannamwar Nagar are ill-equipped to handle the additional traffic expected once the bridge opens. With local roads unable to accommodate the traffic surge, experts warn that Vikhroli could soon face another traffic bottleneck.
As the Vikhroli bridge nears completion, the project serves as a reminder of the challenges Mumbai faces in urban planning and infrastructure development. Despite the final push to finish the bridge, the larger issue of surrounding traffic congestion remains a pressing concern.
