The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is considering delaying the reconstruction of the Parel TT bridge to coincide with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority's Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector (SWEC) project. Mumbai traffic police approved bridge closures for reconstruction, but the BMC plans to synchronize Parel bridge work with the SWEC project to mitigate congestion. The Parel TT bridge, over 40 years old, is set to undergo reconstruction given its damaged condition. In parallel, Central Railway is moving swiftly to replace the 110-year-old Sion rail overbridge at an estimated cost of 50 crore.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is considering aligning the reconstruction of the Parel TT bridge with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority's (MMRDA’s) Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector (SWEC) project. This aims to minimize traffic disruptions by synchronizing the two initiatives.
The Mumbai traffic police has already approved the closure of the Parel bridge for reconstruction, but the BMC plans to synchronize Parel bridge work with the SWEC project. The decision stems from the recognition that commencing Parel bridge work independently could create traffic issues which would be replicated again when SWEC construction begins. The BMC seeks to optimize efficiency and reduce inconvenience by coordinating these projects.
Parel TT bridge is over 40 years old and is on Bharat Ratna Dr. BabaSaheb Ambedkar Road. The proposed reconstruction has been necessitated by the damaged expansion joints of the bridge. Notably, heavy vehicle movement on the bridge has been halted since June 2023. The plan involves reducing the existing 44 joints to just three, enhancing the bridge's structural integrity and providing a smoother ride for commuters. This project is estimated to cost approximately Rs. 17 crores and would take almost 6 months to be completed.
The project also adds value to the bridge by including the construction of a 60-meter-long solid ramp on the 300-meter-long bridge. This addition aims to maintain a 60-meter stretch for traffic during the construction period.
Simultaneously, Central Railway (CR) has expedited the process to dismantle the 110-year-old Sion rail overbridge, which connects the eastern parts of Mumbai to Lal Bahadur Shastri (LBS) Road and Dharavi. CR's plan involves reconstructing the bridge over the 5th and 6th railway lines, increasing its length from 40 to 51 meters. The new single-span structure eliminates a pillar along the railway lines, aligning with modern engineering standards. This significant project, estimated at 50 crore, reflects CR's proactive approach to infrastructure enhancement.
In conclusion, the BMC's consideration of a synchronized reconstruction approach for the Parel TT bridge with the SWEC project exemplifies a strategic effort to mitigate traffic disruptions. These initiatives underscore a broader commitment to modernizing Mumbai's infrastructure.
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