Mumbai: BMC Addresses Criticism: No Immediate Connection Between Andheri’s Gokhale Bridge and Barfiwala Flyover
Mumbai, 5th March 2024: The BMC has clarified that the initial phase of the reconstruction project did not intend to connect Andheri’s Gokhale Bridge with the Barfiwala Flyover due to a significant height difference and safety concerns. Responding to criticism and social media reels regarding the unsuccessful connection, the BMC issued a press statement, emphasizing that it is appointing consultants from VJTI and IIT to find a solution for bridging the nearly two-meter gap between the two structures.
The height disparity, amounting to 2.833 meters, arose from the increased height requirement by the railways for the Gokhale Bridge and the absence of drawings for the Barfiwala Flyover. The BMC stated that attempting to join the two flyovers would result in conflicting slopes, leading to potential accidents. Moreover, modifying the Barfiwala Flyover to connect with the Gokhale Bridge would have required utilizing space on S V Road and Barfiwala Road, causing traffic disruptions.
Acknowledging the challenges, the BMC highlighted a series of meetings and the examination of various options for connecting the flyovers. It affirmed the decision to address this connection in Phase II of the project. At the inauguration of Gokhale Bridge’s first arm on February 26, BMC commissioner Iqbal Chahal had indicated plans to open the second arm and connect both flyovers by the year’s end.
In response to criticisms, Advocate Trivankumar Karnani emphasized that the BMC should admit its error and take corrective actions rather than issuing clarifications. Karnani called for accountability, suggesting that officials responsible for the delay should face consequences, and capable officers should be enlisted to rectify the situation.
The Gokhale Bridge, a vital link between Andheri East and West, faced partial closure in 2018 following a partial collapse that claimed two lives. Subsequently, the BMC initiated phased reconstruction efforts, but in September 2022, the bridge was deemed unsafe during an audit and completely shut down on November 7, 2022.
