14 August,2023 07:17 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. Aklekar
The construction of the bridge started on February 14, 2022
A new city icon is on the horizon as the old Reay Road bridge, which had been demolished, is now undergoing transformation into a sleek cable-stayed bridge over the harbour line. Progress on this ambitious project has been swift, with an impressive 45% completion achieved within 18 months. Barring any unforeseen delays due to the relocation of affected structures, the bridge is expected to be open to the public by March 2024, marking a remarkable achievement in completing such a sizeable road bridge over rail lines within a two-year timeframe in Mumbai.
The task of reconstructing Mumbai's dilapidated British-era road over bridges was entrusted to the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (MRIDC) by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Recognising the bustling traffic demands of Mumbai, MRIDC has strategically planned the construction of new cable stayed bridges adjacent to existing ones, followed by the careful demolition of the old structures. This meticulous approach ensures minimal disruption, even to pedestrian movement, during the construction phase.
Reflecting on the endeavour, a senior official from MRIDC said, "Our aim is to not only enhance infrastructure but also seamlessly integrate it with the city's flow. These Cable Stayed Over Bridges are well underway at Reay Road, Byculla, and Dadar Tilak Bridge, all slated for completion within the two-year timeline." He emphasised the meticulous planning behind these projects to ensure smooth execution.
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Delving into the specifics of the Reay Road Bridge's progress, the official elaborated, "All foundation work has been successfully concluded, with girder launching and superstructure work now in full swing. Presently, the Cable Stayed Road Over Bridge at Reay Road is 45% completed. Subject to the clearance of Right of Way (ROW), we are confidently on track to finalise the bridge by March 31, 2024. Construction started on February 14, 2022."
The upcoming bridge holds multifaceted significance. Not only will it facilitate traffic flow beneath the Barrister Nath Pai Road underpass, but it will also ensure ample vertical clearance for vehicles passing beneath the eastern freeway, adhering to Indian Road Congress (IRC) standards. The addition of this modern cable-stayed marvel will seamlessly blend with the timeless heritage of the city. Envisioned as an architectural masterpiece, the bridge will be adorned with tasteful LED lighting, enhancing its aesthetic appeal while prioritising safety through a comprehensive bridge health monitoring system.
Structures in all to be relocated
One railway ticket counter structure, 130 huts and 15 sheds.
How many relocated?
110 huts relocated.
What remains to be shifted at the site?
One ticket counter structure, 20 hutments (out of 130) and 15 sheds
The agency responsible for relocation: Mumbai Port Trust (MbPT) and Central Railway
Bridge details
Length: 385 metres with two ramps
Number of lanes: Six
Estimated project cost: Rs 145 crore
