A unique solution has been proposed to address the height difference between two key bridges. The Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI) has suggested a method that could save the Barfiwala Flyover from demolition and connect it to the newly opened Gokhale Bridge in Andheri. VJTI filed its report with Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on February 20.
The Barfiwala Flyover is a vital link to the Gokhale Bridge for those going towards Juhu. It was closed due to a 2.8-meter height difference with the Gokhale Bridge. Gokhale Bridge is a crucial east-west connector in Andheri and was partially opened on February 26.
Then, the BMC sought VJTI's expertise to find a solution to this problem. The institute's report, received on Wednesday, included suggestions for resolving the height difference.
VJTI's investigation found the Barfiwala Flyover to be in good condition, removing the need for demolition. The institute proposed a method to elevate the flyover slabs using jacks, aligning them with the Gokhale Bridge.
The project is estimated to cost around INR 3 crore. It involves raising the columns from underneath using a pedestal. After that, work on the asphalt roads will commence. The project will take three months from the work order.
The recently opened section of the Gokhale Bridge has already benefited 70–80% of commuters. Once the Barfiwala Flyover is corrected, commuters from Lokhandwala and Andheri West will no longer need to cross S.V. Road.
BMC commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal, during the launch of the Gokhale Bridge, said that the VJTI report was expected in two weeks at the commissioning of the Gokhale Bridge on February 26. Later on March 7, chief engineers of bridges from BMC requested the institute devise the quickest, non-breaking, and most implementable option in a letter.
The civic body responded to criticism on social media about the failed attempt to connect the two flyovers. It clarified that, due to differences in height and safety issues, it was never in the plan to connect the two flyovers during the initial phase of renovation.
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