Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Feb 26: Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday virtually inaugurated the much-awaited Tardeo–Nagpada–Mumbai Central flyover, a key east-west connector expected to bring major relief to commuters in south Mumbai.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was also present during the virtual inauguration ceremony.
The new flyover restores crucial connectivity between Tardeo, Nagpada and Mumbai Central railway station, offering motorists a smoother alternative route and significantly reducing travel time in the congested corridor.
The structure replaces a 130-year-old British-era bridge at Mumbai Central that had been declared unsafe and subsequently dismantled. Its removal had disrupted east-west connectivity in the area for nearly two years, causing severe traffic bottlenecks.
The flyover spans a total length of 333 metres, including 138.39 metres on the eastern side, 157.39 metres on the western side and 36.90 metres within railway limits. It features a 7-metre-wide carriageway along with pedestrian-friendly footpaths on both sides.
Civic officials said the project is expected to ease congestion on major arterial routes such as Jehangir Boman Behram Road (earlier Bellasis Road), Dr Dadasaheb Bhadkamkar Marg (Grant Road), Pathe Bapurao Marg and the Mahalaxmi station bridge.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) completed the project in a record 15 months and six days, nearly four months ahead of the stipulated deadline.
The execution required close coordination between the BMC’s bridges department, railway authorities, traffic police and local ward offices. Work over railway tracks was undertaken by railway authorities, while the civic body handled approach roads and structural components.
The project faced several hurdles, including relocation of BEST utility lines, demolition of obstructing structures with rehabilitation provisions, removal of a housing society boundary wall and legal challenges in the high court.
Despite these complexities, authorities ensured strict adherence to safety protocols. Load testing, structural stability certification and safety clearances were obtained, along with a no-objection certificate from railway authorities.
With the flyover now open to the public, officials expect smoother traffic flow and improved connectivity across one of Mumbai’s busiest corridors, bringing long-awaited relief to thousands of daily commuters.