Mumbai, October 26, 2023 – In an announcement that came as no surprise to many, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) revealed that Mumbai’s iconic Gokhale Bridge won’t be ready in time for Diwali as initially hoped. The new estimated date for its reopening is February 15, 2024. The delay, as explained by the BMC, is due to the complexity of the project, particularly the delicate girder-shifting process.
Gokhale Bridge’s Ongoing Transformation
Mumbai’s Gokhale Bridge, a crucial east-west link in the city’s western suburbs, has been undergoing a major transformation since its dismantling in November 2022. The decision to take down the bridge was made due to concerns about its structural integrity, and the deconstruction took place in phases between December and March.
RITES to Oversee Delicate Girder Lowering
One of the most challenging aspects of this project is the careful relocation of the girders. Weighing a substantial 62 tonnes, the first consignment of steel for the north side girder arrived in Andheri on July 29. To ensure the safe and precise lowering of these girders to a depth of 7.5 meters, the BMC has enlisted the expertise of a consultancy firm called RITES. This is a pioneering effort in India, as it involves lowering a 1,300-ton girder from a considerable height, which can only be done at a rate of 15 centimeters per hour during railblocks.
During a recept review meeting, Western Railways officials requested detailed information and drawings of the blocks required for launching the girders of Gokhale Bridge. This collaboration is vital to ensuring the safe and efficient progress of the project.
After Girders, Structural Work and More
Once the girders are in place, the BMC will focus on laying bars and concretization the structure before beginning the mastic work. These subsequent steps are crucial to ensure the bridge’s safety and longevity.
The transformation of Gokhale Bridge is an intricate process, and while the delay is unfortunate, it’s a testament too the dedication to safety and quality. The people of Mumbai can look forward to a safer and more robust bridge when the project is complete on February 15, 2024.