Railway authorities in Mumbai carried out a major infrastructure operation on Sunday, successfully dismantling a 100-year-old structure at the Prabhadevi Road overbridge. Executed by the Western Railway’s Mumbai Division, the mega block was completed on March 22, marking a significant milestone in ongoing railway modernisation efforts.
According to an official statement, the block was conducted between 12:30 am and 6:45 am, during which two 32-metre girders were safely de-launched. Officials noted that the task was completed seamlessly within the scheduled window, with no untoward incidents.
The Prabhadevi Road Over Bridge, formerly known as the Elphinstone Road bridge, remains a vital connector within Mumbai’s suburban rail network. The removal of ageing girders, each over a century old, forms part of broader efforts to upgrade infrastructure and improve commuter safety.
Despite the timely completion, the operation posed multiple challenges. Authorities pointed out that the narrow access road at the site made it difficult to position and manoeuvre heavy cranes. Moreover, dismantling such old structures required precise engineering and careful execution to ensure safety.
Another complex aspect involved relocating Temporary Overhead Equipment (OHE) within the limited block period. Teams managed the transition efficiently, allowing the work to proceed without disruption.
Officials commended the coordinated efforts of engineering and operations teams, stating that the successful execution reflects the division’s capability to handle complex infrastructure upgrades while maintaining strict safety standards.
Separately, Western Railway has initiated safety measures near Bandra Terminus. On March 12, work began on installing a 3-metre-high fence along a 150-metre stretch near Garib Nagar in Bandra East to prevent trespassing and garbage dumping.
“As of March 9, fencing covering 37 route metres has been completed. Of the 50 foundations planned, 48 have been prepared, 33 cast, and 90 columns erected,” a WR official said.
The stretch, flanked by dense slum settlements, has long raised safety and sanitation concerns. Authorities revealed that nearly 1,875 cubic metres of waste were cleared from the area over the past year. The fencing aims to restrict unauthorised access and improve operational safety along this sensitive railway corridor.
Source: Mid-day
