Mumbai: BMC Investigates Barricade Removal on Barfiwala Flyover, Delays Official Opening
Mumbai, 2nd July 2024: The Gokhale bridge in Andheri gained attention again on Monday morning when the C D Barfiwala flyover, which connects to it, briefly opened to traffic before abruptly closing half an hour later. The connector is now scheduled to officially open on July 4th at 5 pm.
The BMC reported that plastic barricades on the flyover were removed by unidentified individuals, prompting an inquiry by the authorities. According to traffic police sources, members of the public were responsible for opening the flyover prematurely. Due to incomplete work, traffic movement on the bridge had to be halted, as stated by an officer.
The alignment issue between the Barfiwala flyover and Gokhale bridge had previously sparked criticism when it was discovered in February, coinciding with the opening of a reconstructed section of the Gokhale bridge to motorists. The Barfiwala flyover has remained closed since then to address the alignment problem. Locals expressed initial satisfaction when the flyover was reopened on July 1st as promised by the BMC, although their relief was short-lived.
Abhijit Bangar, Additional Municipal Commissioner, expressed intent to investigate the removal of barricades and affirmed plans to open the connector on July 4th. He cited a positive load test report indicating the structural integrity of the bridge, supported by confirmation from VJTI.
Officials clarified that upon opening, the Barfiwala flyover will accommodate only light vehicles due to its connection with the partially operational Gokhale bridge, which is currently restricted to light vehicles for commuter safety amid ongoing two-way traffic.
In response to a request from the traffic department, the BMC was urged to install necessary safety infrastructure before opening the Barfiwala connector, including a traffic signal at the meeting point with the Gokhale bridge, a speed breaker, pedestrian crossing, and a stop line near Mayor Hall signal, spanning approximately 35 feet from the start of the flyover.
Residents expressed scepticism regarding claims that the barricades were removed by the public, suggesting a possible miscommunication between authorities. The full opening of the Gokhale Bridge is slated for March 2025, coinciding with the completion of the second arm of the Barfiwala flyover.
Meanwhile, BMC is considering constructing a staircase for pedestrian East-West connectivity in Andheri. It’s worth noting that BMC had previously registered an FIR when MLA Aaditya Thackeray forcibly opened Lower Parel’s Delisle bridge in November 2023.
