Mumbai’s new cable-stayed steel bridge is set to replace the aging Bellasis Bridge, responding to the ever-increasing traffic demands of the city. In a mere four months, the century-old Bellasis Bridge, linking Nagpada on the east with Tardeo on the west, is slated for demolition, heralding a new era in connectivity. Nestled between Mumbai Central and Grant Road in the island city, Bellasis Bridge currently serves as a Railway Overbridge (ROB), spanning over railway tracks.
The bridge will embrace a cable-stayed design, primarily constructed from robust steel with a concrete foundation. Notably, the carriageways will be significantly wider, promising a substantial improvement in traffic flow. The clearance above the railway tracks will also be raised to approximately 6.5 meters, a notable enhancement compared to the existing clearance of approximately five meters.
Bellasis Bridge holds a unique status as a significant portion of it traverses above railway tracks, while a substantial section falls under the jurisdiction of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Consequently, the Western Railway will oversee the demolition and reconstruction of the bridge segment spanning over railway tracks, while the BMC will take charge of the remaining section.
The widened carriageways of the new bridge are poised to significantly alleviate traffic congestion, promising a smoother commuting experience. Furthermore, the incorporation of a robust steel structure will enhance durability and safety, addressing concerns linked to the deteriorating condition of the existing century-old bridge, which has suffered from corrosion in several areas.
The BMC has earmarked a budget of Rs 65 crore for the bridge’s construction, with the Railways expected to contribute Rs 40 crore to the project, as reported by IE. Sources indicate that once the work order is issued, construction is estimated to take approximately 24 months to reach completion.