Mumbai, July 3: The Gokhale Bridge-Barfiwala flyover connector in Andheri is set to open on July 4 at 5 pm, following a tumultuous journey marred by engineering challenges and public outcry in Mumbai's Andheri. The project, intended to enhance east-west connectivity in the bustling suburb, has been embroiled in debate due to a critical misalignment issue between the two vital bridges. This misalignment, initially overlooked during planning and construction, has drawn sharp criticism from commuters and officials alike, highlighting persistent challenges in urban infrastructure development.

Following its partial opening on February 26, the Gokhale Bridge faced immediate criticism due to a noticeable six-foot gap with the CD Barfiwala Bridge, crucially hindering its intended functionality as a seamless traffic conduit. From initial structural challenges to ongoing debates over responsibility and delays, the journey to completion has been fraught with challenges. Let's delve into the controversies surrounding this pivotal infrastructure project. Mumbai: First Girder Installed on Gokhale Bridge in Andheri, BMC Likely To Open Bridge for One-Way Traffic From February 15.

What Was ‘Misalignment’ Controversy?

The controversy surrounding the Gokhale Bridge-Barfiwala flyover connector began when the bridge was reopened on February 26 after a 15-month closure for renovations, only to reveal a six-foot gap between the Gokhale Bridge and the CD Barfiwala Bridge. This misalignment sparked criticism from commuters and opposition leaders, leading to a blame game between the BMC and Western Railway authorities. Intended to seamlessly connect the two crucial roadways in Andheri, Mumbai, the bridge and flyover displayed a six-foot height discrepancy, rendering them functionally incompatible and prompting public outcry. Maharashtra: Shiv Sena MLA Aaditya Thackeray Writes to Governor Demanding Suspension of Officials Over Gokhale Bridge Construction.

BMC officials cited necessary height adjustments due to railway specifications, while railway officials claimed the BMC was informed of clearance requirements in advance. Criticism mounted as the misalignment not only delayed the project's completion but also raised safety concerns among commuters. BMC's attempts to rectify the issue through hydraulic jacking and expert consultations from institutions like VJTI and IIT aimed to salvage the project's integrity and restore public trust. Despite these efforts, ongoing delays, including unauthorised removal of barricades and structural adjustments, continued to mar the project's progress.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 03, 2024 11:41 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).