Back in Action! Gokhale Bridge Reconnects Mumbai’s Heartbeat

Mumbai’s Gopal Krishna Gokhale Bridge in Andheri, a vital east-west connector, has finally reopened this evening after a closure of nearly two and a half years. The bridge’s full restoration marks a turning point for thousands of daily commuters who have faced extended detours, traffic snarls, and disrupted public transport since its shutdown in November 2022.

Key Highlights:

Full Reopening After Delays: The bridge, which has been closed since November 2022 for rebuilding following structural issues and a fatal collapse in 2018, is now open completely after the completion of its second phase.

Inauguration Ceremony: The reopening was celebrated with a ceremony involving Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar and other officials at 5 pm.

Immediate Impact: Light motor vehicles only are initially permitted, while heavy vehicle movement is to be allowed after subsequent coordination with traffic police and demolition of height constraints.

Commuter Relief: The reopening would significantly cut journey times and also relieve congestion on alternative routes such as the Andheri and Milan subways, particularly pre-monsoon.

BEST Bus Services: Citizens are demanding the restoration of rerouted BEST bus routes at the earliest, which will increase connectivity for office workers and students further.

Art for Awareness: The walls of the bridge have new paintings by NGO Project Mumbai, encouraging traffic safety and the rich culture of Mumbai.

Technical Challenges Overcome: The project was delayed several times because of design modifications, supply chain disruptions, and a complicated realignment with the C D Barfiwala flyover. The completed structure is 510 meters long and cost around ₹160 crore.

Community Collaboration: Local citizens' groups were instrumental in maintaining quality and transparency during the project.

Gokhale Bridge's reopening is ready to turn ordinary daily drives on their heads, ushering long-awaited comfort and renewed connectedness to western suburban Mumbai.

Source: Mid-Day