Elphinstone Bridge Closure: Check Alternate Routes And Traffic Schedule

The historic Elphinstone Bridge, a British-era structure, will be closed for a complete overhaul starting from April 25, as per Hindustan Times (HT) report The closure will last for two years, with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) planning to demolish the existing bridge and construct a new, modern four-lane, double-decker flyover in its place.

A notification regarding this closure was issued on Wednesday, and it stated that alternate traffic arrangements will come into effect from 9:00 pm on Friday, April 21.

Alternate Routes And Traffic Changes

The closure of the Elphinstone Bridge is expected to cause significant disruptions, especially due to its location near several large hospitals and the recent development of mill lands into malls and office complexes in the area. To manage the traffic flow during this period, the traffic police have provided alternative routes for motorists.

Motorists can use the Tilak Bridge in Dadar and the Chinchpokli Bridge to cross over the railway tracks. These routes will be available in both directions. Additionally, traffic on the Currey Road Bridge will be regulated according to specific time slots:

1. Motorists travelling from Parel East to Prabhadevi/Lower Parel can use the bridge between 7:00 am and 3:00 pm.
2. Motorists travelling in the opposite direction can use the bridge from 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
3. Between 11:00 pm and 7:00 am, the bridge will remain open for traffic in both directions.

These alternate arrangements are based on suggestions received from citizens following the publication of the draft notification on April 8.

New Double-Decker Flyover Details

The Elphinstone Bridge will be replaced by the Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector, a 4.5-kilometre-long double-decker flyover. This new flyover will link Atal Setu on the eastern shores of the city to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link on the western coast. The flyover will feature two bridges that will cross over the active railway tracks at Sewri and Parel/Prabhadevi. These bridges will be constructed using the push-pull method, which involves erecting steel superstructures over the railway lines without disrupting train services.

The new flyover will have two levels. The first level will have four lanes, with two lanes in each direction, connecting Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Road to Senapati Bapat Marg. The second level, also with four lanes, will connect Atal Setu to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.

Impact On Local Commuters And Emergency Services

While the construction of the new flyover is underway, efforts have been made to ensure that the inconvenience to commuters is minimised. A foot over-bridge on the northern end of Parel Station will be designated as a non-ticketed zone for public use. Additionally, a new foot over-bridge at the southern end of Parel station is expected to be completed soon.

To support emergency services, ambulance vehicles will be stationed on both sides of the bridge around the clock, ensuring immediate access for urgent medical situations.

The closure of the Elphinstone Bridge and the construction of the new flyover are part of an ongoing effort to improve the city's infrastructure and ease traffic congestion. However, the transition period will require patience from commuters as alternate routes and timings are adjusted to accommodate the changes.

What To Expect In The Coming Years

With the completion of the new double-decker flyover, the aim is to provide smoother and faster connectivity between key parts of Mumbai. The improved traffic flow will benefit commuters travelling between the city's eastern and western coasts, and the new flyover will help ease the congestion that often affects this busy area.

For now, motorists are advised to plan their routes in advance, consider alternate routes, and stay updated with any further traffic notifications issued by the authorities.