October 24, 2025: Motorists hoping for traffic relief in Byculla by March 2026 may have to wait much longer, as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated plans for another bridge in the area even before completing the ongoing one. The move has drawn criticism from residents and urban planners, who call it an example of poor infrastructure coordination worsening traffic woes in South Mumbai.
According to officials, the new project involves constructing a 952-metre, four-lane flyover connecting the JJ Flyover and the existing Y-Bridge. The Rs 805.15-crore project is intended to replace the ageing Y-Bridge and is expected to take at least two years to complete. Construction began in 2021 and was initially scheduled for completion in 2024, later revised to 2025, and now pushed to March 2026.
In comparison, the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation’s 900-metre Byculla bridge project costs Rs 278 crore — making the new bridge nearly four times more expensive despite a similar length.
Residents have expressed frustration over the prolonged inconvenience. “I use this road regularly, and the traffic congestion has been constant since the work on the first bridge started,” said Fort resident Niranjan Ashar. “Now, BMC will start another bridge, continuing the chaos for years.”
Another local, Omkar Patil from Nagpada, warned of serious risks near hospitals. “This road connects JJ Hospital and Masina Hospital. I have personally seen ambulances stuck in the jam many times. Starting another bridge now will guarantee traffic congestion for the next few years,” he said.
Urban expert Pankaj Joshi criticized the lack of coordination among authorities, stating, “There should be better planning and coordination between all authorities for better urban planning.”
Responding to criticism, Uttam Shrote, BMC’s Chief Engineer (Bridges), said, “There are two junctions and we have planned cable-stayed portions in two locations, which increases the cost.”
Source: Mumbai Mirror
