November 04, 2025: The demolition of the century-old Elphinstone Road overbridge (ROB), a key link between Parel and Prabhadevi, has thrown traffic into disarray and left residents battling severe noise pollution. The British-era bridge, over 100 years old, was closed for demolition on September 12, leading to massive congestion around Lower Parel, Currey Road, and Bharatmata Junction.
Residents Complain of Constant Noise
Locals living near the Currey Road and Lower Parel bridges have voiced frustration over the incessant blaring of horns from vehicles stuck in long traffic jams. The situation is worsened by the near-constant sound of ambulance sirens, as the area houses major hospitals, including KEM, Tata, and Wadia. Residents say the noise continues day and night, making life “unbearable.”
With the Elphinstone Bridge now dismantled, vehicular movement between Dadar, Parel, Lalbaug, and CSMT has been heavily disrupted. Motorists traveling from Dadar toward these areas are being diverted via the Lower Parel and Currey Road bridges, adding to congestion.
Authorities and Political Leaders Step In
Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Anil Kumbhare acknowledged the traffic snarls but assured residents that the situation is under control. “We are monitoring ambulance movement and will discuss ways to reduce the late-night siren disturbance,” he said.
Meanwhile, MNS leader Maruti Dalvi stated that his party would soon submit a letter to traffic authorities, demanding urgent measures to ease congestion and reduce noise levels at the Currey Road signal.
Bridge Part of City’s Modernisation Effort
The demolition is part of Mumbai’s larger infrastructure modernization drive, aimed at replacing aging connectors between the city’s western and central suburbs. While the upgrade promises smoother traffic in the long term, residents near Parel are currently bearing the brunt of its short-term fallout.
Source: The Free Press Journal
