Mumbai's Sion Bridge To Shut For Two Years: Major Traffic Disruptions Ahead

The demolition of the historic Sion Bridge, a crucial link on Mumbai's central railway line, will commence on August 1. This 112-year-old bridge, which connects the east and west sides of Mumbai, will be closed to all traffic until July 2026 for extensive reconstruction. This closure will sever the vital east-west connectivity and is expected to cause significant disruptions to Mumbai's transport system.

Built in 1912 during the British era, the Sion Bridge has been deemed unsafe for use following a recent structural audit by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). Consequently, plans to demolish and rebuild the bridge have been accelerated.

Photo Credit: PTI

However, the project faced delays due to local opposition, with residents and their representatives urging the railway authorities to defer the work to avoid conflicts with important 10th and 12th-grade examinations and other local concerns.

The bridge's demolition and reconstruction are scheduled as follows:

I. Initial Work Dates

January 20, 2024
February 28, 2024
March 28, 2024

II. Reconstruction Timeline

The new bridge is expected to be constructed and completed within 24 months.

Project Details

1. The new bridge will feature a single-span semi-through girder design, measuring 49 meters in length and 29 meters in width, using RCC slab methods.
2. This project will include the addition of the fifth and sixth railway lines.
3. Both the Central Railway and the Municipal Corporation will collaborate on this project.

As of now, heavy vehicle traffic has already been barred from the Sion Bridge. Starting from August 1, the bridge will be entirely closed to all traffic, including light vehicles. Consequently, journeys to the Mahim area will be extended by approximately one to one and a half kilometres.

This extension is expected to increase rickshaw fares, causing inconvenience to passengers and potential financial strain on rickshaw drivers. A. K. Tiwari, President of the Swabhimani Taxi-Rickshaw Union, has expressed concerns about the adverse effects on both passengers and drivers, with fears of decreased rickshaw business due to rising fares.

The closure of the Sion Bridge marks a significant moment in Mumbai's transport landscape, with the city's residents and commuters facing the challenges of navigating alternative routes during the reconstruction period.