Inauguration of Kherwadi flyover delayed by two weeks

In another predictable scenario for an under-construction infrastructure project, the inauguration of the upcoming Kherwadi Junction flyover on the Western Express Highway (WEH) will be delayed by 10 days.

Motorists fear traffic situation will go from bad to worse if the monsoon hits the city before the Kherwadi Junction flyover is thrown open for public use. Pic/Sameer Markande

According to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the flyover that was supposed to be thrown open for public use by May-end will now be completed by June 10. This could result in ugly traffic snarls if the rains lash Mumbai before the stipulated deadline.

A site in-charge said that in order to meet the new deadline, the contractor is working day in and day out. "Around 300 labourers are working on the project in two shifts and at a good pace," he added.

Officialspeak
Commenting on the project, MMRDA Commissioner UPS Madan said, "In order to avoid traffic issues during monsoon, the work is on in full swing. We are looking forward to throw open the flyover to the commuters by June 10."

When MMRDA chief engineer Sharad Sabnis was asked whether the flyover would develop potholes during monsoon, he said, "The material used for the black topping of the flyover is of supreme quality, and it won't lead to formation potholes.

The structural work of the flyover will be through by May 29 (today), after which only a minor portion of the work remains. This is likely to be completed by June 10."

Senior Police Inspector Vakola (Traffic) P P Temkar said, "Since the vacation period is on, we aren't facing major traffic issues. The only time we face problems is during morning and evening peaks hours, but the traffic flow is manageable due to the diversions."