July 10, 2025: The Gokhale Bridge in Andheri, a major link between the eastern and western parts of the suburb, has been fully reopened in May 2025 after being shut since 2017 due to a partial collapse. Its closure had severely impacted daily commutes and increased congestion on alternate routes. With the reconstruction now complete, residents and commuters have regained crucial east-west access.
The bridge previously enabled smooth pedestrian and vehicular traffic across the railway tracks, significantly reducing pressure on alternatives like Milan Subway and the Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road (JVLR). A 2018 collapse led to a full shutdown, triggering urgent calls for safe infrastructure upgrades. However, delays followed due to lengthy approvals, coordination issues between BMC and Indian Railways, pandemic-related disruptions, and technical challenges of construction over active railway lines.
Demolition began in 2022, and by February 2024, one arm opened but was shut again due to a misalignment with the Barfiwala Flyover. Full commissioning took place in May 2025, with close coordination between agencies ensuring the project’s completion.
The new bridge spans 511 metres in length and 27 metres in width, with three lanes in each direction and pedestrian footpaths. Its central section, built over railway tracks, is supported by two 1,300-tonne steel girders. The eastern and western approaches extend a combined 421 metres.
The reopening has reduced congestion, improved travel times, and eased pressure on alternate routes. It also boosts access to Andheri Station and the Western Express Highway.
Real estate in Andheri East and West is expected to benefit, with better connectivity attracting residential and commercial interest. The project underscores the importance of timely execution and inter-agency coordination in Mumbai’s infrastructure planning.
Source: Times Property
