Mumbai’s Dahisar-Bhayander Flyover Bridge Project: Cost Soars to ₹4027 Crores
The Dahisar-Bhayander flyover bridge project in Mumbai has been making headlines recently due to a significant increase in its estimated cost. Initially projected at ₹1600 crores when approved in June 2022, the cost has now skyrocketed to ₹4027 crores. This article delves into the factors contributing to this remarkable cost escalation and what this project aims to achieve for Mumbai’s residents.
The Project’s Purpose
The Dahisar-Bhayander flyover bridge project is a crucial initiative undertaken by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). It’s designed to combat the relentless traffic congestion that plagues Mumbai, especially for commuters from Mira Road and Dahisar, who travel to the city for work and other opportunities.
From ₹1600 Crores to ₹4027 Crores: What Happened?
The project’s cost has experienced a remarkable surge. Initially estimated at ₹1600 crores, it was revised to ₹1998 crores when tenders were invited in October 2022. The latest estimate stands at ₹4027 crores. Let’s explore why this cost escalation occurred.
Factors Behind the Cost Surge
Several factors have contributed to the doubling of the project’s cost:
- Viewing Gallery: The addition of a viewing gallery for the public to enjoy panoramic views of Mumbai increased expenses.
- CCTV Installation: Ensuring public safety with the installation of CCTV cameras added to the project’s budget.
- Sound Barriers: Measures to mitigate noise pollution through sound barriers incurred additional costs.
- GST Charges: Goods and Services Tax (GST) charges played a role in the cost escalation.
The Construction Company
The contract for constructing the Dahisar-Bhayander flyover bridge project was awarded to Larsen & Toubro (L&T) after careful consideration by the BMC. Initially, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) was supposed to oversee the project, but it was transferred to the BMC by the state government, making the BMC responsible for all associated costs.
Scrutiny and Clarification
The project’s cost increase has raised questions and scrutiny. The BMC clarified that the fundamental cost of the work remains close to ₹2000 crores. Eliminating the provision for a sky view deck from the project’s scope reduced the cost by approximately ₹300 crores. In October 2022, when the tender was floated, L&T emerged as the lowest bidder among three companies.
Project Details
The Dahisar-Bhayander flyover bridge project aims to create a 5-kilometer-long and 45-meter-wide elevated road to alleviate traffic congestion in Dahisar. The BMC has prepared a detailed estimated cost of around ₹4000 crores for the entire project, including provisional sums that can be used as needed, based on directions from the state-level committee. Additionally, a portion of the cost will be allocated for the rent of acquired land and other facilities for a three-year period.
While the cost of the Dahisar-Bhayander flyover bridge project has doubled, it’s essential to understand the factors that contributed to this increase. This ambitious undertaking by the BMC aims to ease traffic woes in Mumbai, benefiting thousands of daily commuters.
