Mumbai’s bustling Elphinstone Bridge, which has stood the test of time for over 125 years, was due to shut this February for a full-scale demolition and reconstruction. However, in a surprise move, authorities have postponed the closure, granting a short-lived reprieve for thousands of daily commuters.
Elphinstone Bridge: A Vital East-West Connector
🚨 Elphinstone Bridge will be closed for at least 2 years for reconstruction, confirms MMRDA. The Sion connector bridge is also undergoing redevelopment. Huge congestion in the coming months. Challenging times ahead for Mumbaikars. pic.twitter.com/NScsHmATu5
— Mumbai Rains (@rushikesh_agre_) January 31, 2025
Located in the heart of Mumbai, the Elphinstone Bridge links Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Road in Parel with Senapati Bapat Marg in Prabhadevi. For years, it has served as a crucial east-west corridor for motorists, residents and office-goers. Despite its deteriorating condition and repeated calls for renovation, it has remained operational, until now.
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The bridge was slated to be razed and replaced with a modern, two-tier flyover as part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority’s (MMRDA) long-term infrastructure upgrade. The lower tier would continue to facilitate east-west traffic, while the upper tier would directly connect with the ambitious Sewri-Worli connector, easing access to the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), also known as Atal Setu.
Why The Demolition Was Postponed
In view of proposed demolition of Elphinstone Bridge, following traffic diversions/regulations are proposed.
Citizens having any suggestions/objections to the draft notification can send it on mail on addlcp.traffic@mahapolice.gov.in before 13/04/2025.#MTPTrafficUpdates pic.twitter.com/fA8i314WBS
— Mumbai Traffic Police (@MTPHereToHelp) April 9, 2025
Authorities are believed to have delayed the project due to pending traffic and diversion plans. With the Sion Bridge already shut and ongoing metro construction choking several arterial roads, closing the Elphinstone Bridge now would’ve brought large sections of central Mumbai to a halt. Authorities are likely using this time to refine traffic dispersal strategies and coordination with local bodies to minimise chaos when work does begin.
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Concerns From The Community
🚨 Respite for Mumbaikars: Five key Mumbai bridges – Vikhroli, Reay Road, Byculla, Gokhale, and Carnac Connector will reopen for traffic between February and June 2025, providing relief amid the Elphinstone Road bridge closure. pic.twitter.com/9jHol52yyC
— Mumbai Rains (@rushikesh_agre_) February 6, 2025
Local residents and regular commuters are torn. While the delay offers short-term convenience, it also means further uncertainty regarding travel disruptions in the near future. Many are calling for clearer communication from the MMRDA regarding alternative routes and a fixed start date for the new bridge construction.
Despite the pause, the larger plan remains unchanged. Once demolished, the new Elphinstone Bridge is expected to be completed within 24 months, by early 2026.
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In a city that never stops moving, the Elphinstone Bridge stands as both a symbol of resilience and a reminder of Mumbai’s growing need for smart, sustainable infrastructure.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro