June 25, 2025: In an effort to avoid the delays that have historically plagued infrastructure upgrades, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has prioritised the reconstruction of two crucial flyovers: the Sion flyover and the Belasis Railway Over-Bridge (ROB), which links Tardeo, Nagpada and Mumbai Central station.
The Belasis ROB is now expected to be completed ahead of its April 2026 deadline, with the BMC targeting 15 December 2025 for completion. The Sion flyover, which connects the eastern and western stretches of Sion, is slated for handover by May 31, 2026.
On Tuesday, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects) Abhijeet Bangar chaired a comprehensive review meeting at the BMC headquarters. Key officials from the police, civic departments, and Central Railway participated in the meeting to assess the ongoing bridge works.
According to officials, the construction of the Foot Over Bridge (FOB) on the southern side of the Sion bridge—currently undertaken by the Railways—is expected to conclude by August 31, 2025. Following this, demolition of the southern span of the existing structure will commence, alongside removal of old retaining walls beneath the bridge. Girder launching for the northern side is scheduled for November, with the southern section to follow in January 2026.
Significant progress has already been made on the western approach, including the completion of an underpass at LBS Road. A second underpass will commence construction on 1 October, with the Dharavi and LBS Road approaches set for completion by March 2026. Railway authorities are expected to complete their portion by May 15.
In the case of Belasis, all 12 steel girders have now been delivered. Six girders will be launched each night once a railway block is secured, aiming for full installation by 10 August. Remaining rail-related work should be completed by September 14, allowing the bridge to open by December 15.
Source: The Free Press Journal
