Elphinstone Bridge closure postponed: Traffic police await MMRDA approval

The century-old bridge will be replaced by a new double decker one as part of the Sewri Worli elevated corridor project. Its demolition was initially to be finished by February this year, but delays have pushed the date further.

The Elphinstone bridge is a key east-west connection in South Mumbai. It passes over the Parel and Prabhadevi railway stations, both of which experience heavy traffic on weekdays, with estimates ranging from five to seven lakh passengers passing through the stations.

The bridge is also flanked by high density residential and commercial neighbourhoods, schools, and major hospitals such as Tata Memorial and KEM, making the road a lifeline for thousands of patients and visitors.

The project has encountered setbacks at various levels. In previous months, demolition was delayed in order to not interfere with school board exams. Firm opposition from residents of adjacent structures further delayed the project, as they demanded a just rehabilitation plan for those that would most probably be impacted. Acting on these demands, the state government in August proposed a cluster redevelopment project for 19 buildings in the area.

Traffic authorities have long been preparing for massive traffic diversions once the demolition process starts. The closure is set to cause substantial alterations to road flow in that part of Mumbai, especially considering the number of commuters relying on the bridge for reaching residential, office and hospital zones.

Until the traffic police gets clearance from MMRDA, the timeline for the demolition is unknown.

Authorities have stated that once they are cleared, the closure strategy will be put in motion after giving advance notice to citizens. For the time being, the bridge still stays open despite slow progress on the eventual removal and replacement of the bridge.

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