Demolition of Elphinstone Bridge in Mumbai Begins to Enhance Connectivity

The demolition of the Elphinstone Bridge in Mumbai has started to allow for its reconstruction. This project aims to improve east-west connectivity and alleviate traffic congestion in the area.

The demolition of the Elphinstone Road Over Bridge (ROB), a vital east-west connection in Mumbai, commenced on Friday evening. This bridge, over a century old, linked the Parel and Prabhadevi areas. The reconstruction is part of the Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector project by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).

Earlier, Mumbai Traffic Police had announced the closure of the ROB on Thursday and shared an alternative traffic management plan. Initially, the closure was planned for April 25 but was delayed to avoid congestion in Dadar, Lower Parel, Curry Road, and Bharatmata areas. A new traffic plan was created to reduce inconvenience for motorists.

Bridge Reconstruction Plans

The existing Elphinstone ROB is 13 metres wide, allowing only 1.5 lanes of traffic each way. The dismantling will pave the way for a modern double-decker structure. This new design aims to enhance east-west connectivity significantly in Mumbai.

The first level of this double-decker bridge will have a 2+2 lane carriageway for vehicles between Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Road and Senapati Bapat Road. The second level will also feature a 2+2 lane carriageway for traffic from the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (Atal Setu) to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL).

Key Features of the New Connector

The Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector will stretch 4.5 kilometres and include four-lane 2+2 carriageways. It will connect the MTHL with BWSL, providing an essential link between Mumbai's northern and southern coastal roads along the west coast.

This development is expected to ease traffic flow and improve transportation efficiency across central Mumbai. The project reflects efforts to modernise infrastructure while maintaining essential connectivity within the city.

With inputs from PTI