BMC Investigates Misalignment Between Gokhale and Barfiwala Bridges

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated rectification work to align the newly constructed Gokhale bridge with the C D Barfiwala flyover in Andheri. However, it has also signaled its intent to delve into the causes that led to the 6-foot gap between the two structures.

BMC Chief Bhushan Gagrani informed TOI that an audit will be conducted to ascertain the reasons behind the misalignment. He emphasized that the administration would need to provide an explanation for the additional expenditure incurred due to the rectification work. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the factors contributing to the misalignment.

The alignment endeavor is estimated to cost BMC around Rs 10 crore. Gagrani hinted at a possible communication gap between the agencies involved in the construction work.

Dhaval Shah, Director of Lokhandwala Oshiwara Citizens’ Association, expressed appreciation for BMC's initiative, considering the misalignment occurred despite officials being aware of the height difference from the outset. He urged BMC to conduct a thorough inquiry into the lapses and take appropriate action against responsible officials.

The disparity between the two structures was detected after one arm of the Gokhale bridge was opened for vehicular traffic on February 26. BMC sought a solution for merging the Gokhale and Barfiwala bridges from VJTI. In its report, VJTI proposed lifting the last four spans of the flyover and raising and recasting pedestals to bridge the gap and align the structures. The report underwent further scrutiny by IIT-Bombay.

On Sunday, BMC commenced the alignment work under the supervision of experts from VJTI and IIT-B. The project is expected to be completed by June. BMC has set a target to finish phase 2 work, encompassing the entire Gokhale bridge, by December.

TOI