BMC and MRIDC to construct a new cable-stayed ROB in Mumbai's Byculla area

BMC in collaboration with the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (MahaRail) will construct a new cable-stayed bridge parallel to the existing ROB. Along with an iconic design the bridge will also have a selfie point. Reportedly, the existing ROB will not be demolished after the completion of the new bridge. Instead, it will be renovated, keeping its historical importance in mind.

Byculla ROB is one of the busiest bridges in the city as it provides a connecting link to the Eastern Express Highway. The addition of the new road will ensure smooth traffic movement between CSMT and Dadar.

The project will be taken up as part of the MoU signed between the BMC and MahaRail for the re-construction of 10 ROBs and one road under the bridge (RUB) in Mumbai.

While the construction of the new bridge takes place, the old ROB made in 1992 will remain open for use. Once the new bridge gets completed, renovation of the new one will begin. As per the reports, the construction of the new cable-stayed ROB will be completed by October 2023.

The proposed ROB will be a symmetrical cable-stayed bridge with a single central pylon. Additionally, MahaRail has also planned to install a signature theme based lighting all over the bridge with a provision for a selfie point. The new cable-stayed ROB will comprise a total of four lanes. Meanwhile the existing ROB will have a total of three lanes.

Reportedly, authorities will remove over 120 roadside vendors at the century-old Sant Gadge market in Byculla in order to pursue the renovation and construction work. The market has around 533 structures, 120 of which will be affected. Prioritising the livelihoods of the vendors here, BMC officials have already visited the site to to decide on the relocation process.