September 12, 2025: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has approved the construction of a four-lane underpass at the Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road (JVLR) junction to reduce traffic congestion and enhance pedestrian safety. Modeled on the Metro Cinema underpass in Marine Lines, the project aims to ensure smoother vehicular flow and safer pedestrian crossings in one of the city’s busiest areas. Administrative approval has been granted, and a consultant has already been appointed to initiate work.
The decision was one of the key outcomes of a high-level meeting chaired by Mumbai North West MP Ravindra Waikar and BMC commissioner Bhushan Gagrani. The meeting, held at BMC headquarters, addressed over 30 civic and infrastructure issues in the constituency.
Among other announcements, the Hindu Hriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray Trauma Hospital will be affiliated with Cooper Hospital. Deputy municipal commissioner Sharad Ughade said, “Eleven doctor positions were recently filled, boosting the hospital’s capacity to deliver better healthcare.” Plans are underway to expand the ICU from 12 to 22 beds.
Redevelopment projects also featured prominently. The Topiwala Market redevelopment is progressing, with possession of shops expected by June 2026. Tenders for market redevelopment in Versova and Yari Road will be floated within a month, while a review for Dattaji Salvi Market will be held shortly.
On education, BMC officials confirmed that CBSE classes will soon be introduced in phases across civic schools. Infrastructure measures discussed included a new K-West ward office, a pipeline and drainage upgrade near Oberoi Mall in Goregaon East, a new bridge linking Madh and Marve, a sewage treatment plant at Versova creek, and a reservoir tank at Veravali to strengthen water supply.
Waikar stressed strict action against illegal constructions, adding, “Structures in Dindoshi that flout the Kurar redevelopment pattern must face immediate demolition.”
Other discussions included permissions for house repairs in Versova Koliwada, a proposed bridge over the Andheri subway, and the installation of an equestrian statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Jogeshwari East.
Source: Hindustan Times
