Elphinstone Bridge to be Closed for Reconstruction: MMRDA Tightens Security
The century-old Elphinstone Bridge, a key connecting link between Parel and Prabhadevi in central Mumbai, is set to be closed for reconstruction. This decision comes as part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA)’s Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector project, which aims to enhance connectivity and reduce traffic congestion in the city.
Heavy police security was deployed late tonight at Bhausaheb Todankar Road, near Prabhadevi Station, as the MMRDA and Traffic Police officially closed the bridge for public use. The closure was initially planned for April 25, but was delayed due to concerns about causing traffic congestion and disruptions in central Mumbai areas such as Dadar, Lower Parel, Curry Road, and Bharatmata.
The British-era Elphinstone ROB has been serving as a crucial link between Parel and Prabhadevi for decades. According to officials, the Mumbai Traffic Police issued a notification about the closure of the elevated structure on Thursday, along with a traffic management plan to be implemented until the new Elphinstone Bridge and Worli-Sewri connector open for vehicles.
In a related development, Mumbai Congress president and Lok Sabha MP Varsha Gaikwad alleged that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), currently under a government-appointed administrator, has become a ‘pasture of corruption’. Gaikwad claimed that contractors were decided in advance, and tenders were floated later to suit them, raising concerns about the integrity and transparency of the administration.
The reconstruction of the Elphinstone Bridge is a significant step towards modernizing Mumbai’s infrastructure. The new bridge, once completed, will not only improve traffic flow but also enhance the overall safety and efficiency of the city’s transportation system. The MMRDA and the Traffic Police have assured the public that comprehensive measures are in place to minimize inconvenience during the reconstruction phase.
Residents and commuters are advised to follow the traffic management plan and use alternative routes to avoid delays. The MMRDA and the Traffic Police have also set up helplines and information centers to provide updates and assistance to the public during this period.
The project is expected to be completed within the next few years, bringing a much-needed upgrade to Mumbai’s infrastructure and contributing to the city’s development goals. The MMRDA has assured that the new Elphinstone Bridge will be a state-of-the-art structure that will serve the city for generations to come.
In the meantime, the public is encouraged to stay informed and follow the official updates from the MMRDA and the Traffic Police to stay safe and avoid unnecessary disruptions. The reconstruction of the Elphinstone Bridge is a testament to the city’s commitment to progress and development, and the efforts of the authorities to ensure a smooth transition during this critical phase.
