Mumbai Demolishes Historic Elphinstone Road Over Bridge to Make Way for New Infrastructure

Original: With Elphinstone ROB razing, the city bids adieu to another British-era bridge

Hindustan Times•Apr 6, 20262 min

In a Nutshell

The Elphinstone Road Over Bridge (ROB) in Mumbai, a vital connector for 115 years, was demolished on Sunday to facilitate the construction of a new double-decker bridge. The demolition faced delays due to the bridge's age and structural challenges, causing inconvenience to rail commuters.

Key Points

01The Elphinstone ROB served as a key east-west connector for 115 years.
02Demolition took longer than planned due to the bridge's age and rusted girders.
03The project will pave the way for a new double-decker bridge by 2026.
04Rail commuters faced delays as train services resumed later than scheduled.
05Challenges included limited space for cranes and gas cutters due to nearby high-rises.

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Full Summary

On Sunday, the Elphinstone Road Over Bridge (ROB) in Mumbai was demolished after serving as a crucial east-west link for 115 years. The demolition, which was initially scheduled to take 6.5 hours, extended by an additional 90 minutes due to the bridge's deteriorating condition and rusted girders. Rail commuters experienced significant inconvenience as train services were delayed, with operations resuming only at 7.14 am instead of the planned 5.45 am. Officials involved in the project cited the need for caution due to the bridge's 'uncertain residual strength' and challenges posed by surrounding high-rise buildings. The demolition clears the way for a new double-decker bridge that will accommodate both motorists and an elevated corridor connecting the Sewri and Worli areas, expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Key Figures

115 years

Duration the Elphinstone ROB served as a connector

6.5 hours

Initial planned duration for the demolition mega block

90 minutes

Additional time taken beyond the planned demolition duration

2026

Expected completion year for the new double-decker bridge

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Why It Matters

The demolition and subsequent construction of the new bridge will enhance connectivity for motorists and commuters in Mumbai, improving traffic flow in a densely populated area.

Who is affected

motorists and rail commuters in Mumbai

What to know

Residents should stay informed about ongoing construction updates and potential traffic changes in the area.

FAQ

The bridge was demolished to make way for a new double-decker bridge that will improve connectivity in the area.

Challenges included the bridge's age, rusted girders, and limited space for equipment due to nearby high-rise buildings.

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