Mumbai: Work on Vikhroli’s east-west connecting ROB finally starts

The 656-metre-long bridge has a 50-metre stretch passing over railway lines

After being stuck for years, work on the Vikhroli road overbridge (ROB) finally started on Tuesday morning. East-west connectivity in the area has been an issue ever since the level-crossing gate was shut 10 years ago, but consistent efforts of the local community has helped kick-start work on the bridge.

Speaking to mid-day, Mario Rodrigues, chairman of the Bombay Catholic Sabha St Joseph Vikhroli unit, said, "There was a positive development in the morning with work starting on the east end of the bridge. We have been continuously in touch with the authorities concerned for early execution of the long-pending project."

Officials said that the bridgework got delayed due to land acquisition issues. However, even though the work has begun, the railway portion of the bridge spanning over six lines still remains a challenge.

Also read: Mumbai: Flawed bridge at Dombivli station demolished

The 656-metre-long bridge, which is being built at a cost of Rs 45.12 crore, has a 50-metre stretch passing over the railway lines. Work on the approaches is being done by BMC and about 40 per cent of it is complete.

Railway officials said that the sub-structure (pillars) was ready and tenders for the super-structure of the bridge (50 metres long) were under process.

"The railway portion is about 50 metres and there will be seven steel girders for one span. Tender work for the same is under process," said Shivaji Sutar, CR chief spokesperson.

The east-west connectivity in Vikhroli has been an old problem. There is an east-west road overbridge at Ghatkopar and another one at Kanjurmarg station.

In order to travel east-west or the other way round, Vikhroli residents have to take a detour to Ghatkopar or Kanjurmarg.

Rs 45.23 cr
Cost of the Vikhroli road overbridge