The Elphinstone Road overbridge in Mumbai is set for a complete transformation after being declared structurally unsafe. Authorities have approved plans to demolish the ageing structure and replace it with a modern double-decker bridge, with completion targeted for 2027. The project is expected to significantly improve connectivity in one of the busiest suburban corridors of the city.
The new bridge will be designed to handle heavy traffic volumes while providing smoother access between key residential and commercial hubs. The double-decker format will allow the segregation of traffic streams, reducing congestion and ensuring safer movement for both vehicles and pedestrians. The development comes in response to long-standing concerns over the safety of the existing bridge, which has been in service for several decades.
A key feature of the upcoming structure will be its reliance on steel girders, a choice that reflects both modern engineering practices and the demand for greater durability. Steel fabrication will play a central role in the construction process, creating opportunities for domestic suppliers of high-strength structural steel. The emphasis on steel is not only a matter of safety but also efficiency, as prefabricated components can speed up construction and reduce on-site disruptions.
The rebuilding of the Elphinstone Road bridge carries wider implications for urban infrastructure planning. With Mumbai continuing to expand and face mounting traffic pressures, such projects are seen as critical to easing daily commutes and enhancing overall connectivity. At the same time, they underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring and replacement of ageing infrastructure in metropolitan areas.
By introducing a new double-decker bridge, the project aims to blend safety, functionality, and modern design. It also highlights the growing role of steel in reshaping the urban transport landscape, particularly in cities where demands on infrastructure are constantly intensifying.
