While several bridge reconstruction projects in Mumbai have faced significant delays, the construction of the new cable-stayed Bellasis Railway over Bridge (ROB) between Mumbai Central and Grant Road is progressing ahead of schedule. Although the contract for the bridge extends until April 2026, civic officials claimed that the bridge will be open to traffic by December 2025.
The old Bellasis Bridge, originally constructed in 1893, was dismantled by railways in June 2024 after being declared unfit following a thorough audit. The new bridge will improve connectivity between Nagpada and Tardeo. The BMC decided to construct a cable-stayed bridge to minimise piling work and streamline the construction process since the bridge is above railway tracks.
Abhijeet Bangar, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects), stated, "The work on the Bellasis Bridge is progressing as planned, and we are making efforts to open the bridge for traffic ahead of schedule. Approximately 12 structures obstructing the bridge route have already been removed, and the remaining 12 abandoned buildings will be cleared immediately." He directed the civic officials that commercial buildings be relocated to appropriate rehabilitation sites to ensure the smooth continuation of the project.
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The new Bellasis Bridge will span 380 meters and feature six vehicular lanes, effectively doubling the capacity of the previous three-lane bridge. Designed with a cable-stayed structure and steel construction, the bridge will have a concrete foundation and a 6.5-meter clearance above the railway tracks. The estimated cost of the project is approximately Rs 110 crore. Of this, the BMC has allocated Rs 70 crore, while the railway department will contribute Rs 40 crore, according to civic sources.
