Mumbai: The BMC’s standing committee on Friday reviewed a slew of infrastructure proposals — from the delayed Sion east–west railway overbridge to a key flyover linking Eastern Express Highway with Airoli, which is a part of Goregaon–Mulund Link Road (GMLR) project — and stalled a proposal to construct a town hall-cum-gymkhana in Fort amid concerns over planning priorities in south Mumbai.During the meeting, around 59 proposals were tabled before the committee.Civic authorities informed the committee that the Sion railway overbridge (ROB) will be completed and opened for traffic by August 15. The century-old bridge located outside Sion station has remained closed since August 2024, affecting connectivity between south Mumbai and the eastern suburbs. The cost of constructing the bridge has increased from Rs 42.8 crore to nearly Rs 50 crore due to the addition of steel girders and the development of approach roads. The proposal seeking approval for this cost escalation was placed before the standing committee.Members raised concerns over delays in the project and the inconvenience caused to citizens. Rajshree Shirwadkar, chairperson of the education committee and a member of the standing committee, said hawkers have occupied the area around the construction site, making it difficult for pedestrians — especially schoolchildren — to navigate the narrow lanes. Congress corporator Ajanta Yadav pointed out that the area houses several schools and hospitals. “The delay in completing the bridge has worsened traffic and caused inconvenience to pedestrians. When will the bridge be completed to provide relief to citizens?” she asked.Responding to the concerns, additional municipal commissioner Vipin Sharma said the bridge would be opened for traffic by August 15.The committee stalled BMC’s proposal to construct a town hall-cum-gymkhana in Fort, citing planning concerns. Members across party lines said that instead of developing a recreational facility that may cater only to a limited section of citizens, the BMC should utilise the space to strengthen parking infrastructure in south Mumbai.Among the 59 proposals tabled before the committee was a plan to construct a 1.3-km flyover connecting Eastern Express Highway with Airoli as part of the GMLR project. The contract for this flyover has been awarded at Rs 1,389 crore, which is 6.8% higher than the estimated cost. According to BMC records, the overall project cost has risen to Rs 2,495 crore. The civic body has stated in its tender document that the bridge is expected to be completed within 36 months, excluding the monsoon period.
