Vikhroli Bridge Opens : Promises Faster Commutes Across Mumbai Suburbs
After nearly eight years of construction and delays, the much-anticipated Vikhroli East-West Connector Bridge, a crucial link between the eastern and western suburbs of Mumbai, will be opened to the public today, June 14, at 4 PM. The decision to open the bridge without a formal inauguration ceremony has been taken following instructions from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, citing the onset of the monsoon.
A Landmark for Mumbai’s Infrastructure
The Vikhroli Bridge is expected to significantly reduce travel time and ease traffic congestion for daily commuters. It connects Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg in the western part of Vikhroli to the Eastern Express Highway, providing a direct and faster route for those traveling towards Powai and other central suburbs.
Citizens commuting between Ghatkopar, Vikhroli, and Kanjurmarg — particularly those within a 5-kilometre radius — will see considerable benefits, with an estimated time saving of up to 30 minutes during peak hours.
Bridge Specifications and Construction Details
Total Length: 615 meters
Width: 12 meters
Estimated Cost: ₹180 crore
Location: Near Vikhroli Railway Station
The bridge's construction included the installation of 7 massive steel girders by the Railway Department, weighing a combined 655 tonnes. Of the total length, 565 meters were constructed by the Mumbai Municipal Corporation, and the remaining 50 meters were completed by the Railway Administration.
In addition to the bridge structure, the civic body has completed all associated works, including:
Concrete paving
Soundproofing
Anti-crash barriers
Road painting and markings
Approach road connectivity
A designated traffic stop area has also been developed on the bridge by the Roads and Transport Department to streamline vehicle movement.
CM Praises Timely Completion
Chief Minister Fadnavis has commended the Municipal Corporation and Railway authorities for completing the bridge work on schedule despite the challenges posed by monsoon conditions and years of delays.
This new connector is set to be a game-changer for east-west mobility in Mumbai, and it is expected to relieve pressure on several arterial roads in the eastern suburbs.
Residents and commuters are encouraged to use the bridge from this evening and stay updated on traffic advisories as the route opens for public use.