Mumbai’s Dharavi Road Overbridge, popularly known as the Sion Hospital Bridge, is expected to close for demolition after Diwali 2026. The move will facilitate the construction of the fifth and sixth railway lines between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Kurla, aimed at improving capacity on Mumbai’s busy suburban railway network.
According to a report by a news agency, the closure will be implemented after the festive period, subject to approval of traffic diversion plans and other necessary clearances. The bridge serves as an important connection for motorists travelling between Dharavi, Sion and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Under the reconstruction plan, Central Railway will build the section of the new bridge passing over the railway tracks, while the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will construct the approach roads. Authorities are also expected to arrange suitable pedestrian access, including through foot-over bridges or alternative facilities, before vehicular movement is completely halted.
The project forms part of the broader railway expansion programme under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project-II (MUTP-2). The proposed fifth and sixth lines between CSMT and Kurla are intended to increase carrying capacity and improve the management of suburban train operations along one of the city’s busiest corridors.
The planned demolition comes shortly after the reopening of the reconstructed Sion Road Overbridge. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated that bridge on October 22, restoring a vital east-west connection after nearly two years of disruption.
During the closure, commuters had to depend on alternative routes, particularly the congested 90 Feet Road, resulting in longer journeys and difficulties reaching destinations, including during emergencies. Residents welcomed the reopening, citing potential savings in travel time and fuel costs, while also seeking safer pedestrian facilities, especially for schoolchildren.
The upcoming closure of the Dharavi bridge is expected to create fresh challenges for local traffic. Timely diversion arrangements and safe access for pedestrians and patients visiting Sion Hospital will be important to reduce disruption during the reconstruction work.
Source: The Free Press Journal
