The 32-year-old dream of establishing east-west connectivity in Vidyavihar registered a major milestone on Saturday night, with the BMC installing the nation’s longest girder on the railway track. The bridge is expected to be ready by May 2024. see pics (Photo/Sameer Markande, Pradeep Dhivar)
Updated On: 2023-05-29 09:29 AM IST
Compiled by : Anagha Sawant
Workers launched the girder above railway lives at Vidyavihar station, post midnight, on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday
Central Railway had announced a mega block between 1.20 am and 4.20 am on Sunday, and the BMC started the work. The girder crossed seven railway tracks and reached a temporary pillar that was erected on a platform
“The girder is 99.34 meters in length, 9.50 meters in width and weighs 1,100 metric tons. This is the longest girder without pillars that the BMC has launched. This is an engineering marvel,” said a BMC official
“Another girder will be launched soon. We are working on a war footing. The work will be completed by May 2024. We have completed the most challenging task of the project. This bridge will help to reduce traffic congestion of the Ghatkopar east-west connector and Chembur Santacruz Link Road,” said Deputy Municipal Commissioner Ulhas Mahale
According to civic officials, there are several challenges in the work, like shifting of the ticket booking office, removal of encroachment and widening of a major nullah and a storm water drain. Also, the Railways has suggested changes in the bridge design and the BMC has decided to increase the length of the approach road
Also Read: Mumbai: India's longest girder becomes part of much-awaited Vidyavihar bridge
