October 10, 2025: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has received Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance for the reconstruction of the Poisar Rive r bridge in Gorai, situated in Mumbai’s western suburbs. However, the project has drawn opposition from local residents, as the existing bridge serves as the only direct access route between Lower and Upper Koliwada.
The 100-metre-long bridge, built over three decades ago, lies within the CRZ buffer zone and was recently declared structurally unsafe following an audit. The civic body has proposed to demolish and rebuild it at an estimated cost of Rs 4 crore, with a completion timeline of two years.
According to BMC officials, the new bridge will feature improved structural stability, along with metal railings and street lighting for enhanced safety. Despite these assurances, residents and local fisherfolk have raised strong objections to the demolition.
“During high tide, Koliwada could be cut off completely, forcing people to take a 700-metre detour via the beach road,” said a local resident. The community has also expressed frustration over the lack of clarity regarding temporary transport arrangements during the reconstruction phase.
Locals fear that without a well-defined contingency plan, essential services such as ambulances and fire engines could face severe access challenges during emergencies. They have urged the BMC to consult the fishing community and ensure a swift, reliable alternative route is established before demolition begins.
Civic officials have maintained that safety concerns necessitate the bridge’s reconstruction and that efforts are underway to minimise inconvenience to residents. However, community representatives insist that the project must balance structural safety with local accessibility to prevent Gorai’s Koliwada from being isolated during the high-tide period.
Source: The Free Press Journal
