In an effort to improve transportation and connectivity in the city, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has invited tenders from contractors for the design and construction of two major infrastructure projects. The first project involves the construction of a bridge between Madh and Versova, while the second entails the development of an elevated road to establish east-west connectivity over Khar subway in the west and Bandra terminus in Bandra east.
Madh-Versova Bridge: Enhancing Connectivity
The proposed bridge between Madh Island and Versova aims to provide direct connectivity between these two locations. Currently, residents rely on ferries due to the lack of existing road connectivity. To bridge this gap, the BMC envisions a 600-meter cable-stayed bridge over the Versova creek, with a mandatory span of 300 meters. The bridge will not only significantly reduce travel time but also improve transportation options for the residents.
Khar Subway-Bandra Connector: Easing Traffic Congestion
The Khar subway in the western suburbs has been marred by chaotic traffic conditions due to encroachments on the east side. To address this issue, the BMC plans to construct an elevated road that will facilitate an exit towards the Western Express Highway. Trivan Karnani, a lawyer and spokesperson for the citizens’ welfare forum @MNCDFBombay, highlights the importance of this layout in reducing traffic congestion at the Khar subway.
Projected Costs and Durations
The estimated cost for the Madh-Versova bridge project is approximately Rs 18 billion, while the Khar subway-Bandra connector is anticipated to cost around Rs 13 billion. Both projects are expected to be completed within three years. The Madh-Versova bridge construction is scheduled for 36 months, which includes monsoon months, while the Khar subway-Bandra connector will involve 42 months of construction, also accounting for monsoon months.
Coastal Regulatory Zone Clearances and Future Projects
The BMC has obtained necessary clearances from the Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) for both the Madh-Versova bridge and the Khar subway-Bandra connector. These clearances play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and sustainable development practices. Additionally, the BMC has also received CRZ permissions for the construction of other crucial infrastructure projects. These projects include a bridge at Marve Road in Malad and a vehicular bridge behind Bhagat Singh Nagar across the Goregaon creek.
Tender Process and Deadlines
The BMC has set the tender process in motion by inviting contractors to participate in the bidding process for both the Madh-Versova bridge and the Khar subway-Bandra connector. Pre-bid meetings for interested contractors have been scheduled for March 13, with the tender deadline set for March 20. This transparent and competitive process ensures that potential contractors can present their proposals in line with the project requirements and regulations. As the BMC ventures into these crucial infrastructure projects, it signifies the local government’s commitment to improving connectivity and addressing the city’s transportation challenges. The successful completion of the Madh-Versova bridge and the Khar subway-Bandra connector will not only enhance the movement of residents and commuters but also boost overall development in the western suburbs of Mumbai. The city’s citizens eagerly await the commencement of construction and the subsequent realization of seamless connectivity.
