Mumbai: Foot over bridge reopening delayed in Vikhroli, residents seek answers

The foot overbridge in Vikhroli East. PIC/By SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Vikhroli East residents have expressed frustration over the continued closure of a crucial foot overbridge (FOB) over the busy Eastern Express Highway, which links Tagore Nagar and Kannamwar Nagar, despite repair work reportedly being completed. "The bridge has remained inaccessible for nearly six months, forcing commuters, particularly students, to take longer and riskier routes to cross the highway," said Sanjay Jaiswal, a resident.

The FOB was shut in December last year for repair and maintenance work. "For the past two weeks, the bridge has appeared fit to use, but it remains locked. New tiles and railings have been installed. We fail to understand why the authorities are delaying the reopening," said Mayur Gavan, a student who would use the bridge daily while travelling to and from college. "People are being forced to walk considerable distances to find alternative crossings now that the bridge is closed," the youth added.

Official Speak

Officials told mid-day that the delay is administrative rather than technical. According to them, there has been a change in staff during the course of the project, resulting in pending final approvals required before the bridge can be opened for public use.

"The bridge will be opened once all necessary approvals are obtained. It should be operational by June 10," said Assistant Engineer Alankar Veer of S ward. Residents, however, have urged authorities to expedite the process, arguing that a completed public infrastructure facility should not remain unused while commuters continue to face daily hardships and safety risks.

Why students prefer FOB

The bridge serves as the only practical and safe route to cross the highway while commuting to educational institutions. "Every day we have to spend extra time taking a detour. Crossing the highway directly is dangerous, but sometimes, when we are running late, we do it. For the past month or so, it wasn't the issue it had been during the exam season, as it was the holiday season. College resumes next week. We don't understand why they are still not allowing us to use it," said Parth Dhanavde, a college student.