Elphinstone Bridge News: Demolition Plans Delayed By Public Objections And Roadwork

The proposed closure of Mumbai's 125-year-old Elphinstone Bridge for demolition and reconstruction has been delayed for at least a week following 417 objections and suggestions from local residents. According to a Hindustan Times (HT) report, the Mumbai traffic police received concerns, particularly regarding the surrounding roads, which are already undergoing infrastructure work.

The traffic police, acknowledging the objections, have forwarded them to the relevant departments, requesting that the road work near the bridge, especially on Senapati Bapat Marg and Ganpat Kadam Marg, be completed within eight to 10 days. Anil Kumbhare, the joint commissioner of police (traffic), confirmed that the bridge will not be closed until alternate routes are ready.

As per the same report, among those who voiced concerns was Narendra Shah, a 60-year-old businessperson from Parel East, who stated that the closure would make commuting difficult, as the proposed alternate routes-the Tilak Bridge and Currey Road Bridge-are already congested. He argued that, although he supported the development, authorities had not sufficiently consulted the residents.

The closure, originally planned to begin in February, has faced several delays, including the completion of clearances from various agencies and a consideration for students' board exams. The new four-lane, double-decker bridge will replace the existing Elphinstone Bridge and is expected to ease traffic congestion in the Parel area.

While vehicles will rely on the alternate bridges, a new foot-over bridge near Prabhadevi station is under construction. Ambulances and wheelchairs will be stationed for emergency needs during the bridge's closure.

The delay will give authorities time to address concerns and ensure smooth transitions for commuters once the closure takes effect.