After multiple delays, two vital infrastructure projects in Mumbai—the Gopal Krishna Gokhale Bridge in Andheri and the Vikhroli Bridge—are nearing completion. Following a joint inspection conducted by civic authorities and the Mumbai Traffic Police, it has been confirmed that the Gokhale Bridge is expected to open to vehicular traffic next month, while the Vikhroli Bridge is scheduled for inauguration by May 31.
On Friday, the concrete curing work on the central section of both the Teli Gully Bridge and the Gokhale Bridge on N.C. Phadke Marg was completed. With the primary structural work now finished, final touches such as the installation of crash barriers, noise barriers, painting, electrical poles, and signage are currently in progress. "The remaining work on the bridge will be completed by April 30. We are coordinating closely with the Traffic Police to finalise the date for opening the bridge to traffic,” said Abhijeet Bangar, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects).
He further added that, "Under the Juhu-Vile Parle Development (JVPD) scheme, work is underway on the eastern access road to the Barfiwala Flyover. However, the adjacent slip road remains narrow, causing a traffic bottleneck. To ensure smooth flow along the flyover’s southern slope, the access road must be widened and restored." Meanwhile, approximately 95% of the Vikhroli Railway Station connector is complete, including the eastern approach and western solid ramp. Work remains on three spans near St. Joseph’s School, where deck slabs will be installed. This final stretch presents engineering challenges due to its proximity to the school and busy railway station.
The bridge has a total length of 615 meters and has a width of 12 meters. Of this, approximately 565 meters have been constructed by the BMC. The girders installed on the bridge weigh around 25 metric tons each and range in length from 25 to 30 meters. These girders have been installed in three phases, with six girders placed in each phase—making a total of 18 girders. The bridge is supported by a total of 19 pillars, with 12 constructed on the eastern side and 7 on the western side.
"Once operational, the flyover will reduce travel time and fuel consumption for commuters from the Eastern Express Highway to Powai, benefiting motorists within a 5-kilometer radius, including those from Ghatkopar, Vikhroli, and Kanjurmarg stations," said Bangar.
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