Mumbai’s iconic Elphinstone Road Over Bridge (ROB) will close for reconstruction in February 2025. The bridge, a vital link between Parel and Prabhadevi, will undergo a major redevelopment as part of the Sewri-Worli Connector project. The closure is expected to last for two years, causing significant traffic disruptions in central Mumbai.
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is replacing the nearly 125 year old British era bridge with a double-decker flyover. The new bridge will enhance connectivity between Senapati Bapat Road and Dr BR Ambedkar Road. A second arm will link to the Sewri-Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.
This project aims to ease long-term congestion, but the short-term impact could be severe. Key alternative routes, including Tilak Bridge and Currey Road Bridge, will see increased traffic. These routes, already under strain, may face more congestion, especially during peak hours.
Western Railway has been informed, and adjustments to local services will be made to minimize commuter inconvenience. The traffic police are also planning to manage alternative routes for smoother traffic flow.
The Elphinstone Bridge closure will add to Mumbai’s ongoing infrastructure challenges. With other key bridges already closed for repairs, such as the Sion ROB, the city is bracing for an increase in travel time. However, the long term benefits of the new double-decker bridge are expected to reduce travel time between Sewri and Worli significantly once complete.
While the immediate future looks challenging, the reconstruction is aimed at improving connectivity and easing traffic flow in the long run.
