World Bank withdraws funding for Oshiwara railway project

Between Jogeshwari and Goregaon,there are four level crossings which were to be closed. In place of these,two Road Over Bridges were to be constructed by MSRDC as part of the Jogeshwari – Vikroli Link Road project. For making the platforms and station building the Ram Mandir level crossing was to be closed.

The Oshiwara station,a long pending demand of Oshiwara residents,was to be completed in December 2008. PC Sehgal,Managing Director of the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation said,“Till now 80 per cent of the work has been done with work on earth filling,leveling,retaining wall and two box culverts among others completed. However,the ROBs have not been constructed. If the level crossing is closed by the civic body we can complete the work on station building and platform within a year. World Bank has withdrawn its fund but MRVC has sufficient funds to complete the project.”

SV Joshi Chief Engineer (bridge and traffic),BMC,said,“I am not aware of this project. After studying the project,I will be able to see what the status of ROB construction is and what may be done for the project.”

“However,it is not clear when the work will start and when will it be completed,” said a railway official. “If for the benefit of commuters the BMC has to close level crossing then what is wrong in that,” said Anik Mishra,a resident of Oshiwara.

A major chunk of traffic passes through the level crossing making it difficult for BMC to close it. The project is expected to benefit more than 2.5 lakh people.