The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has started the final phase of the Parel TT Flyover repair work this month. The work is being done in phases to minimise the impact on traffic, with one lane being closed at a time.
As per the Mumbai Traffic Police guidelines, the northbound side of the flyover will be completely closed to all vehicles from March 9 to April 15, while the southbound side will remain closed from April 16 to May 31.
Currently, work is underway to reduce expansion joints on the bridge and resurfacing the road, and the northbound lane has been closed to traffic. Work will begin on the southbound lane soon after this phase is completed. The entire repair work is expected to be completed before the monsoon.
Built in 1980, the flyover is a major thoroughfare on Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Road and is crucial in keeping traffic flowing smoothly at the busy intersection. However, during peak hours, there is a huge traffic jam here and it takes more than 10 minutes for commuters to cover a distance of just 100 meters. The blockage here also affects areas like Bhoiwada and Lalbaug.
Over time, due to the deterioration of many expansion joints on the bridge, the road has become steep and deep. This makes the road rough and increases the risk of potholes, especially during the monsoon. If this flyover is completely closed, there is a possibility of massive traffic congestion on the surrounding roads and alternative routes such as Tilak Bridge.
To avoid this situation, the BMC has started the repair work in phases. This includes structural repairs and replacement of bearings.
“The strength of the bridge has been increased by removing the solid waste management posts and health centres under the flyover. A key part of this project is to reduce the number of expansion joints from 22 to 9 and create deck continuity.
Also, concrete will be used instead of asphalt road, which will ensure a more stable journey, especially during the monsoon,” said a senior municipal official.
Officials said, “This work started a month ago after getting permission from the traffic police and we are trying to complete it before the monsoon.”
The BMC had launched the tender process for the repair and strengthening of this flyover in 2024. The cost of this project is around Rs 17 crore.
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