Western Railway Completes Phase 1 of Bridge No. 20 Reconstruction
Western Railway (WR) has successfully completed the first phase of the reconstruction of Bridge No. 20, located between Mahim and Bandra stations over the Mithi River. This critical milestone paves the way for the second phase, which is targeted for completion before the onset of the monsoon season in May 2025.
The reconstruction work involved extensive block operations on the nights of January 24th-25th and 25th-26th, 2025. Each block lasted 9 hours and 30 minutes, during which WR teams executed the rebuilding of the south abutment of the bridge. A major highlight of this phase was the launch of four 20.4-metre-long, 42-tonne RH girders, using advanced cranes and specialised machinery. Excavation of 2.5 meters under railway tracks required a meticulous approach due to limited space and site accessibility. The operation involved heavy machinery, including 700-tonne cranes, excavators, tamping machines, and dumper trucks. Despite these challenges, a team of 100 skilled workers coordinated seamlessly to ensure the project progressed on schedule.
“The successful completion of this phase is a critical step toward strengthening the structural integrity of Bridge No. 20,” a senior Western Railway officer stated. The new abutment has been designed using modern engineering techniques and advanced materials, ensuring enhanced durability and the capacity to handle increasing railway traffic demands. Bridge No. 20’s reconstruction is a key infrastructure upgrade for Mumbai’s rail network, which is vital for smooth and safe train operations. With the second phase now underway, WR is committed to meeting the May 2025 deadline, ensuring that the bridge is fully operational before the monsoons arrive. This project exemplifies Western Railway’s commitment to improving passenger safety and reinforcing Mumbai’s vital rail infrastructure.
