Mumbai gets new east-west link as Fadnavis opens Tardeo-Nagpada flyover

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday virtually inaugurated the Tardeo-Nagpada-Mumbai Central flyover, a key east-west connecting link in south Mumbai that offers commuters an alternative route.

The earlier 130-year-old British-era bridge at Mumbai Central had been declared dangerous and was subsequently dismantled. The new flyover is expected to restore east-west connectivity that had been disrupted for the past two years.

Officials said the project will ease congestion on Jehangir Boman Behram Road (earlier Bellasis Road), Dr Dadasaheb Bhadkamkar Marg (Grant Road), Pathe Bapurao Marg and the Mahalaxmi station bridge.

The flyover has a total length of 333 metres, including 138.39 metres on the eastern side, 157.39 metres on the western side and 36.90 metres within railway limits. The carriageway is 7 metres wide, with footpaths on both sides.

Fadnavis inaugurated the flyover via videoconference, with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde present.

The structure connects Tardeo, Nagpada and Mumbai Central railway station.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation completed the flyover near Mumbai Central railway station in 15 months and six days. According to a civic release, four months still remain before the stipulated completion deadline under the tender conditions.

Work over the railway tracks was carried out by the railway authorities. Girder bracing, deck sheet installation, slab casting and the construction of both approach roads were completed by the civic body.

The release said coordination between the BMC’s bridges department, the railway department, the local ward office and the traffic police enabled the project to be completed ahead of schedule.

The project faced challenges, including the shifting of Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport utility lines, removal of structures obstructing the work with provision of alternative accommodation, demolition of a housing society boundary wall and a case before the high court.

Officials said load tests, structural stability certification, safety certification and a no-objection certificate from the railway authorities have been obtained, and the flyover is ready for public use.