Height gauges to be erected at Mumbai’s 112-year-old Sion Road Over Bridge to restrict entry of heavy vehicles from tomorrow midnight
The Central Railway has asked traffic police to issue guidelines for road users; IIT Mumbai has declared the colonial-era Sion bridge unsafe during a structural audit.
2 min read
Mumbai division of Central Railway has announced plans to install height gauges on both sides of the 112-year-old Sion Road Over Bridge (File Image)The Mumbai division of Central Railway (CR) has announced plans to install height gauges on both sides of the 112-year-old Sion Road Over Bridge (ROB), which was declared unsafe, from June 21 midnight. The safety measure mainly aims to restrict the entry of heavy vehicles even as the demolition of the bridge hangs in balance.
In view of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mumbai, recommending urgent action, the Railways has also asked the traffic police department to issue appropriate traffic regulation guidelines for road users. IIT Mumbai has declared the colonial-era Sion bridge unsafe during a structural audit.
The demolition of the bridge was initially scheduled to begin on January 20, followed by a six-month demolition process and an 18-month reconstruction period.
The height gauges will have a clearance of 3.60 meters.
Considering its deteriorating strength, orders were given to demolish the Sion bridge and create space for laying tracks for the fifth and sixth railway lines between Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CSMT) and Kurla, which are crucial for improving mail and suburban train services.
These additional tracks will provide dedicated routes, alleviating the congestion in overcrowded local trains, especially during peak hours.
The demolition of the bridge was initially scheduled to begin on January 20, followed by a six-month demolition process and an 18-month reconstruction period. However, the bridge’s closure was postponed after former Member of Parliament (MP) Rahul Shewale requested a meeting at the Chief Minister’s level along with railway officials for discussions, before going ahead with demolition work, stating that it may have potential traffic disruptions that could cause inconvenience to local residents.
The demolition exercise was postponed further to avoid conflict with the Class 10 and 12 board exams.
Meanwhile, the Central Railway has already completed the process of hiring a contractor for the demolition of the Sion ROB.
Constructed in 1912, the Sion Bridge is a vital link connecting Dharavi, LBS Road, and the Eastern Express Highway.
You May Like
