Proposed Chunabhatti Rail Overbridge aims to decongest traffic and enhance commuter safety across Harbour line | File pic
Mumbai: After completing the much-awaited Vikhroli Connector, the BMC is now set to begin work on a new Rail Overbridge (ROB) at Chunabhatti. The bridge, expected to be completed within the next two and half years aims to ease movement for both pedestrians and motorists. The estimated cost of the bridge including all taxes is Rs 52.53 crore.
The Chunabhatti rail crossing connects Duncan Causeway in Sion to V. N. Purav Marg in Chunabhatti, and disrupts both Harbour line train movement and road traffic. With a heavy volume of vehicles and pedestrians, the frequent closure of the gate during peak hours for passing local trains leads to long traffic snarls on both sides, resulting in severe congestion and delays.
It also raises the risk of accidents and hampers the movement of emergency vehicles like ambulances, fire tenders, and police, posing a serious threat to public safety and response time.
The proposal to close the Chunabhatti railway crossing was first discussed in 2019. M/s Technogem Consultancy Pvt. Ltd. was appointed to prepare the design and cost estimates for the construction of bridge.
Subsequently, a tender for the construction was floated in November 2024. Five companies submitted their bids, with M/s Sai Projects (Mumbai) Pvt. Ltd. emerging as the selected contractor. The final cost of the project, inclusive of all taxes, is estimated at Rs 52.53 crore.
Rupesh Ghag, a resident of Chunabhatti, shared his experience: “At times, we are forced to wait for as long as 30 minutes at the railway crossing. If a bridge is constructed, it will be a major relief for motorists. A dedicated foot overbridge would ease the burden on pedestrians especially senior citizens and women with children who struggle the most due to the current setup.”
Total Length – Bridge – 36 meters over railway land; 254 meters over municipal land.
Width -11.30 meters over railway land;
8.5 meters over municipal land.
Staircases – 2 staircases, two lanes
Width of Footpath -2.5 meters
