MahaRail Confirms Byculla Cable-Stayed Bridge Completion by March 2026 with 80% Work Done

The Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (MahaRail) has announced that the Byculla Road Overbridge (ROB) project in South Mumbai is now in its final construction phase, with officials confirming that the Rs 287 crore infrastructure upgrade is expected to be ready for public use by March 2026. The cable-stayed bridge, which has already reached 80 percent completion, represents a major step forward in Mumbai's urban infrastructure development.

The project, which was initially scheduled for completion in 2024, faced delays owing to logistical challenges, leading to revised deadlines of June 2025 and subsequently October 2025. Despite these timeline adjustments, officials have stated that construction work has progressed steadily without causing significant disruption to traffic flow on Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Road, which is recognized as one of Mumbai's busiest traffic corridors. The bridge project is part of a broader initiative to enhance connectivity across the city, similar to Mumbai's Rs 3000 crore infrastructure transformation.

Key Features and Project Specifications

The new 916-metre-long bridge is set to replace the aging Byculla ROB, which had exceeded its operational lifespan. The structure has been designed with a single central pylon and will feature four lanes, effectively doubling the capacity of the previous bridge. The project aims to enhance east-west connectivity between the Eastern Express Highway and South Mumbai, Dadar, and CSMT, thereby improving traffic flow across central Mumbai.

MahaRail officials have reported that the central pylon has already been completed, with ongoing work focused on raising the cables and finishing the surface of the deck slab. Given the bridge's location above a densely populated municipal market and active railway tracks, the design required meticulous planning. Pylons were strategically positioned to minimize interference with the MCGM market, while the cable-stayed design helped reduce the number of foundations within the restricted areas. This engineering approach is comparable to the recent 2000 metric ton arch bridge erection in Mumbai Coastal Road Project.

Modern Design and Aesthetic Enhancements

The bridge incorporates several contemporary features aimed at enhancing both functionality and visual appeal. A three-tier utility duct system has been integrated within the crash barriers to accommodate electrical and telecom cables. The structure will also be equipped with LED lighting that includes tricolour illumination for national occasions, adding to its visual prominence.

Additional enhancements include an aesthetic façade and a dedicated selfie point, which are intended to transform the bridge into a visual landmark of the Byculla skyline, similar to how Alta Monte Tower B is set to enhance Mumbai skyline. One span of the old 'Y' bridge will be integrated into the new structure, a move designed to maintain historical continuity while delivering enhanced traffic capacity and modern safety standards.

Expected Urban Impact and Connectivity Benefits

Once operational, the new bridge is anticipated to significantly ease traffic congestion and improve travel times across central Mumbai. Officials believe the infrastructure upgrade will serve as a crucial connector between major urban corridors while enhancing the overall commuter experience. This development aligns with the broader speed of urban renewal initiatives across Mumbai.

Despite facing technical challenges and space constraints during construction, the project has advanced steadily with minimal impact on daily traffic operations. The bridge's completion is expected to complement other connectivity improvements, including the Andheri Gokhale-Barfiwala bridge connection and the Sion ROB connectivity enhancements.

With work on the main cable span currently underway, MahaRail has expressed confidence that the bridge will be opened to the public by the scheduled March 2026 deadline. The completion of this project is expected to mark a significant milestone in addressing Mumbai's growing transportation needs and will contribute to improving the overall infrastructure landscape of South Mumbai's urban development.

Disclaimer: This news is based on information available from official sources and media reports. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to verify details independently. The completion timeline and project specifications mentioned are subject to official confirmation and may be modified by the implementing authorities. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.