The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is embarking on an inquiry to scrutinise the misalignment between the Gopal Krishna Gokhale bridge and the CD Barfiwala flyover in Andheri, Mumbai.
This move follows the initiation of realignment work on the structures, a process estimated to cost the civic body approximately Rs 8 crore. A senior BMC official, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed to The Indian Express on Thursday the municipality’s intent to investigate the root cause of the misalignment. “While corrective measures are underway, it is imperative to ascertain the factors that led to this discrepancy,” the official stated, emphasising the need for a comprehensive understanding of the issue.
The inquiry will involve soliciting responses from all parties involved in the construction process, including contractors and officials. Based on the initial assessments, the BMC will determine whether a detailed investigation, potentially through the formation of a panel, is warranted. The CD Barfiwala flyover, constructed in 2008 by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), forms a critical link between Juhu and the north-south arms of the old Gokhale Bridge, which has served since 1960. However, the demolition of the old Gokhale Bridge in 2022 and the subsequent construction of a new bridge led to the present alignment issue. The new Gokhale Bridge, designed to comply with railway guidelines due to its proximity to railway tracks, was built at an elevated height of six metre. Consequently, the alignment of its arms with the Barfiwala Flyover was disrupted, prompting the need for corrective action. Currently, only one arm of the Gokhale Bridge is operational, accommodating two-way traffic, while the second arm is slated for completion by the year’s end. The BMC’s commitment to investigating the misalignment underscores its dedication to ensuring infrastructure integrity and public safety, with a focus on rectifying discrepancies and optimising urban mobility.
