Mumbai: Sion, Vidyavihar Bridges and GMLR Flyover Await as Inauguration Delays Frustrate Commuters

Mumbai, 15th October 2026: Three major infrastructure projects in Mumbai- the Sion Railway Overbridge, Vidyavihar East-West Bridge, and a flyover on the Goregaon-Mulund Link Road (GMLR), are awaiting opening to traffic despite nearing completion, with delays in inauguration arrangements adding to commuters’ wait.

The three projects were expected to open around 15th October. However, civic officials have said that a date for the inauguration has not yet been finalised. According to a report by Mid-Day, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had initially expected a VIP to inaugurate the bridges on 14th October, but the plan was postponed due to the person’s unavailability. Officials are considering a revised date, with the possibility of opening all three structures on the same day.

The 1.26-km flyover connecting Dindoshi Court to Film City in Goregaon is part of the larger GMLR project. The Vidyavihar bridge, meanwhile, will provide a direct east-west connection between Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg and Ramkrishna Chemburkar Marg, reducing the need for commuters to take longer detours across railway tracks.

The Sion Railway Overbridge, which has remained closed since August 2024, is undergoing final work, including road markings and the installation of traffic signals and other ancillary infrastructure. The replacement structure is expected to restore a crucial east-west connection between Sion East and West. The bridge is being developed jointly by the BMC and Central Railway.

The delay has prompted criticism from commuters and citizens who want completed public infrastructure opened as soon as it is safe, rather than waiting for a formal inauguration. Sports commentator Harsha Bhogle also urged authorities to open the Sion bridge at the earliest, citing the inconvenience caused by its prolonged closure. Transport analyst Jagdeep Desai suggested that inauguration ceremonies could be conducted virtually if the chief guest was unavailable.

The three projects are expected to improve connectivity across Mumbai’s eastern and western suburbs and ease congestion on surrounding roads. The Vidyavihar bridge is particularly expected to reduce travel time between the eastern and western sides of the railway station, while the GMLR flyover will improve movement between Goregaon and the Film City area.

However, the bridges will provide relief to commuters only once authorities complete the remaining work, fulfil safety requirements and open them to traffic.