High Court Grills BMC and Railways Over Incomplete Hancock Bridge, Seeks Urgent Response

In a recent legal development, the Bombay High Court has voiced apprehensions over the unresolved status of the Hancock bridge in South Mumbai, specifically citing concerns regarding the incomplete second phase and the resulting lack of a safe passage for pedestrians crossing the railway line.

The court has issued a directive to both the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Railways, demanding a comprehensive response within three weeks regarding the current status of the bridge construction and the facilities provided for pedestrian transit. The court proceedings were reinstated in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by activist Kamlakar Shenoy, represented by advocate Aniesh Jadhav, urging the court’s intervention to expedite the bridge’s completion. The PIL, initially disposed of on April 23, 2018, emphasised the necessity for the bridge’s construction and the establishment of a pedestrian bridge or alternative crossing mode over the railway line.

During the recent hearing, the BMC lawyer informed the court that the Carnac Bunder bridge, situated between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Masjid Bunder on the suburban line, is slated to become operational by December 15. This bridge, previously demolished for reconstruction, is part of the ongoing efforts to enhance Mumbai’s infrastructure

The High Court, however, remains focused on the Hancock bridge situation, underscoring the urgency of resolving the issues surrounding pedestrian safety and connectivity. The court’s directive mandates that both the BMC and Railways submit affidavits detailing the progress of bridge construction and the facilities accessible to pedestrians for crossing the railway line. It directed that affidavit in reply by BMC and Railways be filed within three weeks, stating therein the status of construction of bridge and facilities available to pedestrians for crossing the railway line. The HC will hear the matter next on March 27.