The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has gained Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance for three vital bridge projects in Mumbai's western suburbs. These include a cable-stayed bridge connecting Versova to Madh Island, which will significantly reduce travel time from 1.5 hours to 10 minutes. Despite CRZ clearance, further approvals from the forest department and Bombay High Court are required due to mangrove impact. The proposed bridges aim to improve connectivity and alleviate congestion, with the Madh-Versova bridge being the most crucial. Opposition from fishing communities necessitates consultations and temporary measures to minimise disruption. Progress varies across the six planned bridges, with some awaiting MCZMA clearance.
BMC's chief engineer (bridges) disclosed that the civic body obtained Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) clearances for three important projects in Mumbai's Western Suburbs. Among them, the proposed Madh-Versova bridge garnered approval on Jan 17, along with permissions for a project on Marve Road in Malad and a vehicular bridge behind Bhagat Singh Nagar across Goregaon creek granted on Jan 5.
The Madh-Versova bridge is vital since it will provide connectivity between the two locations currently only accessible by ferry. With a width of 27.5 metres and a length of 1.5 km, the cable-stayed flyover seeks to minimise damage to mangroves during construction while guaranteeing consultation with the local fishing community. Even though the clearance process is finished, BMC expects a delayed start because more approvals from the High Court and the forest department are needed. The purpose of this bridge is to improve connection in the area and address issues related to transportation.
Meanwhile, the BMC secured CRZ clearances from the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change for a cable-stayed bridge over the Versova Creek, linking Versova with Madh Island. Expected to substantially reduce travel time from 1.5 hours to merely 10 minutes over a 22 km stretch, this bridge addresses the lack of direct road connection between the two areas. The ferry service, presently relied upon by commuters, becomes non-operational during monsoons, causing inconvenience.
Additionally, CRZ clearance was granted for a proposed bridge at Dharivali village on Marve road and a vehicular bridge behind Bhagat Singh Nagar across Goregaon Creek. However, opposition from local fishing communities poses a hurdle, prompting BMC to devise temporary measures to mitigate disruptions. The estimated cost of the Madh-Versova bridge stands at INR 700 crore, emphasising its significance in alleviating congestion and enhancing connectivity.
While CRZ clearances mark a significant milestone, BMC awaits no-objection certificates (NOC) from the Bombay High Court and forest department before initiating tendering processes. Despite challenges, these projects aim to address traffic congestion and improve connectivity in Mumbai's western suburbs, crucial for the region's development and convenience of residents.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
