A team from Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI) visited the Charkop site in Kandivali West after residents reported tremors during piling operations for the Versova-Dahisar Link Road (VDLR) project. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) paused construction pending a detailed report, which will establish vibration and safety norms. Work on the project will resume only after the findings are shared with residents and their feedback is incorporated.
Following Thursday’s inspection, VJTI experts are expected to submit their report to civic authorities and local residents on Friday. “Given the proximity of residential buildings, the report will lay down detailed guidelines on the type of machinery and equipment that can be deployed, permissible vibration limits, acceptable noise levels and protocols to be followed in case of any emergency,” said a senior civic official. The official added that construction will restart only after these guidelines are communicated and residents’ concerns addressed.
The 20-km Coastal Road initiative, estimated at Rs 20,000 crore, aims to connect Versova to Dahisar. However, the recent piling work for the VDLR reportedly caused tremors in several Charkop buildings, creating panic among local residents. Complaints led to an immediate halt on February 11, followed by a high-level meeting with Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani and MLA Sanjay Upadhyay, who directed VJTI to conduct a site inspection.
Residents have urged authorities to maintain transparency and enforce strict safety measures. Their demands include inspection of all nearby buildings by VJTI, adherence to designated working hours, appointment of a responsible supervisory officer, clear warning signage, pollution-control measures, and written documentation of any incidents. They stress that proper communication and safety protocols are critical before construction resumes.
Source: The Free Press Journal
