Mumbai: Based on structural audit recommendations, the BMC has initiated demolition and reconstruction of seven bridges in the P North (Malad) and R South (Kandivali) wards. This includes three vehicular bridges and four foot over bridges (FOBs). The project is estimated to cost Rs. 26.43 crore and is expected to be completed within two years.
In 2023, M/s. Structronics Consulting Engineers Ltd. submitted their re-examination report of these bridges to the civic body. Subsequently, M/s. Femstruct Consulting Engineers Pvt. Ltd. prepared the design, planning, and cost estimates for the following bridges. It includes two FOBs near Mahalaxmi Dairy Farm and Hanuman Nagar (Kandivali East), the Gaodevi Road (Kandivali East), the FOB linking Narwane Transit Camp and nearby slums (Kandivali West), FOB near Ramnagar Chawl, Bihari Tekdi, and Kamaraj Chawl (Kandivali East), as well as the vehicular bridge in front of Surabhi Complex (Kandivali West), and at Appa Pada, Gandhi Tekdi (Malad–Kandivali East border).
Among these, the FOBs near Mahalaxmi Dairy Farm and Hanuman Nagar in Kandivali East, as well as the one at Kamaraj Chawl, are in a dilapidated condition and have been completely closed for pedestrians due to safety concerns. The remaining bridges are also structurally compromised and have been partially closed to vehicular or pedestrian traffic as a precautionary measure, as per civic official. Three companies submitted their bids for the bridge reconstruction project.
M/s. Bucon Engineers and Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. emerged as the lowest bidder, quoting 11% above the estimated cost of Rs. 19.66 crore. Following negotiations, the BMC finalised the contract at Rs. 26.43 crore. "As the scope includes two vehicular bridges, traffic diversions will be implemented in coordination with the traffic police to ensure smooth and safe movement in the affected areas during the construction period," an official added.
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Foot Over Bridges (FOBs)
Mahalaxmi Dairy Farm: Length -18.80 metres, Width – 3 metres
Hanuman Nagar: Length – 18.80 metres, Width – 3 metres
Gaodevi Road: Length – 12 metres, Width – 9.5 metres
Narwane Transit Camp: Length – 13.76 metres, Width – 3 metres
Ramnagar Chawl, Bihari Tekdi: Length – 30.02 metres, Width – 3 metre
Vehicular Bridges
In front of Surabhi Complex:
Length – 9 metres, Width – 16.40 metres
Appa Pada, Gandhi Tekdi:
Length – 13.6 metres, Width – 21.3 metres
