Mumbai's Aarey Metro Foot Overbridge: Ready but Off-Limits – Here’s Why
For over two months, commuters at the Aarey metro station in Goregaon East have been forced to take a longer route due to a newly built foot overbridge (FOB) that remains closed. Despite being ready, the bridge is locked and off-limits, causing frustration among daily users.
MumbaiAarey MetroFoot OverbridgeCommutersSafety ClearanceReal Estate MumbaiSep 06, 2025
“All this effort, even though the new bridge is ready,” said one commuter, Rahul Kumar Jha, on social media. The bridge was supposed to open on August 15, but that never happened. The new bridge was built by Oberoi Realty, under an Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) rule that asks private builders to provide direct access to metro stations from nearby buildings. It runs parallel to the existing BMC bridge, near the northern end of the station.
Some people say the bridge was briefly open a couple of months ago, but only for workers going to a nearby commercial complex. Within days, it was locked again. This has further added to the confusion and frustration among the commuters.
Officials from Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL), which runs Metro Line 7, said the bridge still needs a safety clearance – similar to the occupation certificate buildings require – before it can open to the public. Without that, they can’t let anyone use it. The safety clearance is a crucial step to ensure that the bridge is structurally sound and safe for daily use.
So far, Oberoi Realty has not responded to questions, and MMMOCL has not given a date for when the bridge will open, the media report added. Meanwhile, thousands of daily commuters are stuck taking a longer route, while a perfectly usable bridge stands locked right next to them. The delay in opening the bridge has raised questions about the efficiency and coordination between different authorities involved in the project.
The Aarey metro station is a vital part of the city’s public transport system, serving a large number of daily commuters. The new foot overbridge was designed to ease the commute and provide a safer and more convenient way for people to access the station. However, the current situation has left many wondering why a solution that could benefit so many is being delayed.
The MMRDA’s rule requiring private builders to provide direct access to metro stations is aimed at improving connectivity and reducing congestion. However, the implementation of such rules can sometimes face delays and challenges, as seen in the case of the Aarey Metro FOB. It is hoped that the necessary safety clearances will be obtained soon, and the bridge will be opened to the public, providing much-needed relief to the commuters.
In the meantime, commuters are left to navigate the longer route, hoping for a resolution that will make their daily commutes easier and safer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Aarey Metro foot overbridge closed?
The foot overbridge is closed because it still needs a safety clearance, similar to an occupation certificate, to ensure it is safe for public use.
Who built the new foot overbridge?
The new foot overbridge was built by Oberoi Realty, as per the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) rule requiring private builders to provide direct access to metro stations.
When was the bridge supposed to open?
The bridge was supposed to open on August 15, but it did not happen.
Why are commuters frustrated?
Commuters are frustrated because they have to take a longer route to access the Aarey metro station, while a new foot overbridge that is ready and could make their commute easier remains locked and off-limits.
What is the role of Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL) in this situation?
MMMOCL, which runs Metro Line 7, is responsible for ensuring the safety and operation of the foot overbridge. They have stated that the bridge needs a safety clearance before it can be opened to the public.
Related News Articles
Mumbai's Chembur: The Emerging Hub of Real Estate Growth
Discover why Chembur is becoming the most sought-after residential hub in eastern Mumbai
Why Thane is Emerging as a Top Destination for Office Space
Thane's strategic location, economic growth, and cost-effectiveness make it an attractive option for businesses looking for office space. With excellent connectivity, infrastructure, and a growing pool of talent, Thane is becoming a hub for commercial off
China's Property Crisis Enters Fifth Year: New Measures to Combat Housing Slump
As China's property crisis continues into its fifth year, the government has introduced new measures including rate cuts and state-backed bonds to stabilize the housing market. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.
Understanding the Real Estate Market in Mumbai: What $1 Million Can Buy You
Discover the current real estate landscape in Mumbai and what you can purchase with $1 million. Learn about the trends and factors influencing property prices in this bustling metropolis.
Can REITs Offset the Decline in Realty Stocks?
Amidst falling real estate stocks due to lower demand and oversupply, investors are turning to REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) as a potential solution. This article explores the benefits and risks of investing in REITs.
Tariff War Fallout: Bengaluru and Pune Sound Alarm on Housing Slump Linked to US Recession
India's housing market has witnessed a significant downturn in the first quarter of 2025, with a 23% drop in sales and a 34% fall in new housing supply, particularly affecting major cities like Bengaluru and Pune.