Malad Flyover Faces December Deadline Amid Concerns Over Traffic Relief and Design Limitations

Malad, Mumbai:

The ongoing construction of the Mith Chowky flyover at Malad, which began in April 2022, has continued to cause significant traffic congestion for motorists in the area. Originally scheduled for completion within 18 months, the flyover's construction has now exceeded its initial deadline, with authorities aiming for a new completion date by the end of December this year.

Uncertainty Over Traffic Relief and Design Limitations

Despite the progress, there is growing uncertainty about whether the flyover will effectively resolve the traffic issues it was designed to address. The flyover's design includes a one-way stretch from Marve to Orlem and another arm extending from Marve towards Link Road. However, due to a metro line running directly above, the flyover will only accommodate light motor vehicles, leaving heavy vehicles like buses and trucks to continue navigating the congested roads below.

Pending Construction Challenges and Budgetary Considerations

The project, with an estimated cost of approximately Rs 45 crore, faces additional challenges due to the complex nature of the girder launching process. A BMC official explained that girder launching must be carefully executed, particularly at night, due to the constant heavy traffic and the live metro railway above. While the section of the flyover towards Orlem is expected to be completed by the end of September, work on the arm leading to Link Road is anticipated to extend until the end of the year.

Local Skepticism Regarding the Flyover’s Impact

Locals have voiced skepticism about the flyover’s potential impact on improving traffic flow in the area. Some residents believe that widening the road at the junction would have been a more effective solution than building the bridge, especially since the flyover will not accommodate heavy vehicles, which are a significant cause of congestion at Mith Chowky.

Additionally, with the metro line running just above the flyover, the bridge has already been lowered, leading to concerns about whether there will be sufficient clearance for heavy vehicles traveling on the road beneath.