Narrow gap between flyover, Metro line’s viral post sparks concern; BMC clarifies

Malad MLA Aslam Shaikh claimed that the bridge is in the final stages of construction, with one section expected to open within two months.

August 14, 2024

A video of an 800-metre under-construction bridge at Malad’s Mith Chowki junction went viral on social media platforms ever since it was posted on Sunday, August 11.

In the clip, which was shared on X by @Mumbaikhabar9, it was seen that there is a narrow gap between the bridge and the overhead Metro 2A. This sparked concerns of a possible infrastructure mistake by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) similar to the infamous misalignment of Gokhale Bridge in Andheri.

According to reports, the cost of this project is Rs 45-crore. The video was captioned: “Another architectural blunder in the making in Mumbai. This… flyover on Malad Marve Road appears to abruptly end at the metro line on New Link Road. Is there any way a vehicle or even a person could pass under the metro line?”

BMC officials assured that the flyover was still under construction and will be lowered from its current position once completed, as per TOI. “The structure is currently supported on wooden logs to allow work to be carried out below it. Once the girders are launched, there will be a clear height of 3.5 meters from the Metro line to the flyover. It is intended for light motor vehicles, with height barriers on both sides to ease traffic congestion at Mith Chowky,” explained an official.

The clarification was carried by the X handle as well.

Correction | Respected journalist Richa Pinto clarifies, there is a gap of 3.5 meters between the Metro line on New Link Road & ongoing construction of flyover passing under it at Meeth Chowky on Malad Marve Road. Only light vehicles would be using the flyover, she explained.… https://t.co/v95RsyPclh pic.twitter.com/Hv1U4sP22T

— MUMBAI NEWS (@Mumbaikhabar9) August 12, 2024

Former Malad corporator Vinod Mishra pointed out that construction work has caused traffic congestion. “For those traveling from areas like Manor, Madh and Malwani to Malad railway station, this is the only route. Because of ongoing work, the carriageway has narrowed, leading to jams,” he added.

Meanwhile, Malad MLA Aslam Shaikh claimed that he visited the site multiple times in recent months for inspection of the work’s progress. The bridge is in the final stages of construction, with one section expected to open within two months. A penalty has been imposed on the contractor for slow pace of work, he added.

The bridge’s eastern arm originates from Girdhar Park Bridge, passing above Malad Creek, and extending over the traffic junction. The western landing will be near St Joseph’s School.

Another arm will extend southwards from the main carriageway, forming a T-shaped structure. This will lead to Link Road, letting motorists drive towards Infiniti Mall and Andheri.