The Oshiwara bridge that was reopened around a year ago after being closed for two months between June and August 2019 is now set for a prolonged closure as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has sent out a tender for the demolition and reconstruction of this bridge. The civic body has said that this project will take 18 months to be completed and will cost ₹ 18.50 crore.
The 40-year old Oshiwara bridge is an essential link to establish connectivity between north and south Mumbai. It was closed by the authorities last year after it was considered unsafe for vehicular traffic. This came after the BMC conducted an audit of the city’s bridges following the collapse of the Himalaya Bridge near CSMT in March 2019.
Also Read - Mothagaon-Mankoli Bridge Work On Ulhas Creek To Be Completed In 15 Months
The reconstruction of the Oshiwara Bridge is expected to commence in early 2021. At that time, commuters will have to switch to alternate routes via Behrambaug Road, Link Road, or the Western Express Highway to reach their desired destinations.
“As per the notice, the tender process will be completed by October 10, 2020, and the work order will be given after a nod from the standing committee,” an officer with the civic bridges department said.
Though the cost is said to be ₹18.50 crore, officials said that this may increase due to taxes or surcharges. Though the bridge will likely not be shut down anytime this year, the authorities haven’t provided precise details on when the new closure will come into effect. In all likelihood, the reconstruction will likely take until the end of 2022 provided there are no further delays in the process.
Also read - BMC Installs Girders At The Hancock Bridge Ahead Of December Completion Deadline
Share
Tweet
