The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is almost prepared to begin a critical demolition and reconstruction activity under the Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector project. With all technical and safety protocols in place, MMRDA is in the final stages of securing clearance from the Mumbai Traffic Police, which is expected before April 10. After that dismantling work will be started.
According to MMRDA sources, dismantling of the over 100-year-old Road Over Bridge (ROB) at Prabhadevi is a time-sensitive task that must be completed ahead of the monsoon. The work is likely to begin on April 10, marking a major milestone in the project and paving the way for a modern double-decker structure that will significantly improve East-West connectivity in Mumbai.
The Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector is a vital 4.5 km long, 4-lane (2+2) divided elevated corridor designed to serve as a traffic dispersal route for the Mumbai side of the Atal Setu. The corridor connects Atal Setu seamlessly with the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and the Mumbai Coastal Road Project, significantly reducing travel time and providing signal-free access to central and south Mumbai for commuters from Navi Mumbai.
The project includes the construction of ROBs at 2 locations — one across the Harbour Line at Sewri and another across the Central and Western lines at Prabhadevi (Elphinstone Road). The Prabhadevi ROB, which is set to be dismantled, is 13 meters wide and carries only 1.5 lanes in each direction. This century-old structure will be replaced with a state-of-the-art double-decker bridge, designed to handle modern-day traffic volume . According to sources, till date, approximately 60% of the Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector project work has been completed.
Details of the Proposed Double-Decker Bridge
The new ROB will be constructed using advanced techniques including the Push-Pull method for erecting the steel superstructure over active railway lines, ensuring the safety of train commuters during operations.
The proposed double-decker bridge will be constructed using advanced engineering techniques, including the Push-Pull method. This method will be used to erect the steel superstructure over active railway lines, ensuring the safety of train commuters during the construction process.
According to sources, new structure will have two levels. The first level will feature a 2+2 lane carriageway, facilitating traffic movement between Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Road and Senapati Bapat Road. The second level will accommodate another 2+2 lane carriageway, designated for traffic traveling from Atal Setu towards Worli.
The key technical specifications of the bridge include two spans measuring 95 meters and 37 meters in length. The superstructure will have a weight of 3,000 metric tons for the longer span and 1,200 metric tons for the shorter span. Additionally, the approach on the Sewri side will be approximately 156 meters long, while the approach on the Worli side will extend around 209 meters.
Demolition and Construction Challenges
The demolition of the existing road overbridge (ROB) and the construction of a new one present significant engineering challenges due to the presence of live railway tracks and limited urban space. The project will involve the deployment of 800 MT capacity cranes, with a 500 MT standby crane, for the dismantling process.
“To ensure smooth execution, daily time blocks will be required from both Central and Western Railways. Additionally, special attention will be given to the careful handling of underground utilities during the construction of the approach roads. The project is expected to be completed within a 12-month timeline after commencement” said source.
As part of the construction activities, a road closure will be implemented between Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Road and Senapati Bapat Road
Traffic and Pedestrian Management Plan
Upon receiving permission from the traffic police, the stretch between Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Road and Senapati Bapat Marg will be closed to vehicular traffic for a year. During this period, vehicles can use Curry Road Bridge in the south and Tilak Bridge in the north as alternate routes.
For pedestrians, the existing foot overbridge (FOB) near Parel Station on the north side will be designated as a non-ticketed zone for public use. Additionally, a new FOB is under construction on the south side near Prabhadevi Station. While the Western Railway section of this FOB is complete, work on the Central Railway section is still in progress and will be expedited. Once both FOBs are fully operational, they will provide seamless east-west pedestrian connectivity.
“MMRDA has completed all groundwork for this critical infrastructure task and is only awaiting traffic police clearance to proceed. Given the technical challenges and the urgency to complete the demolition before the monsoon, timely approvals are essential to maintain momentum and ensure commuter safety. The traffic police are expected to issue permission around April 10, after MCGM completes work on the connecting roads,” said source.
