Mumbai: With nearly 60 per cent of the work completed on the crucial Sewri-Worli Connector, set to link the Atal Setu, the coastal road, and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, attention has now turned to its impact on surrounding infrastructure. As part of the project, the 125-year-old British-era Elphinstone Road flyover connecting Prabhadevi and Parel railway stations is slated for demolition due to its dilapidated condition.
Dy CM Eknath Shinde Announces Parallel Bridge Connecting Elphinstone, Currey Road & Lower Parel
In response to concerns over commuter inconvenience, especially for residents, office-goers, students, and patients, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the construction of a parallel bridge. According to a Loksatta report, this new structure will connect Elphinstone Bridge with Currey Road and Lower Parel bridges to maintain traffic flow and ensure accessibility.
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) will construct a new bridge replacing the old Elphinstone flyover, which is a key segment of the Sewri-Worli Connector. Officials anticipate increased traffic congestion in areas such as Parel, Prabhadevi and Lower Parel, especially across South Mumbai, during the demolition and construction phase.
Details On The Parallel Bridge
To address this, a parallel bridge linking Lalbaug, Prabhadevi and Lower Parel is proposed. The new bridge will start from the junction of N. M. Joshi Marg and Ganpatrao Kadam Marg, and extend up to the junction of Dr B. R. Ambedkar Road and Dr Ernest Borges Road. This bridge will span both Western and Central Railway lines and pass through land owned by NTC (National Textile Corporation) mills.
However, the construction is pending due to land acquisition issues. Mumbai’s municipal corporation is in talks with the Union Ministry of Textiles for a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to acquire the required NTC mill land. The project will begin once this clearance is obtained.
Locals Oppose Rehabilation Plan
Meanwhile, local residents have opposed the rehabilitation terms proposed by MHADA for those affected by the demolition of buildings under the connector project. Two buildings near the Elphinstone Bridge will be impacted. The residents have rejected MHADA’s financial and relocation plans, instead demanding homes either at the same location or within one kilometre, along with appropriate compensation based on increased Floor Space Index (FSI).
Deputy CM Shinde confirmed these details in a written response, assuring that the state government is actively pursuing necessary clearances to begin construction and minimize disruption to public life.
