Work on the Sewri–Worli connector is set to gain momentum as demolition of the last remaining obstruction—the Haji Noorani building—has been scheduled to begin from April 27. Authorities have directed all 23 occupants, including 17 residents and six shopkeepers, to vacate the premises by April 24.
The structure is the final barrier affecting the construction of key pillars for the 4.5-km-long connector, a crucial link in Mumbai’s transport network. Its presence has delayed progress on certain sections of the project, particularly impacting timelines for ongoing structural work.
The project is being overseen by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, with construction work executed by J Kumar Infraprojects. The delay in clearing the building had slowed work even as the project moves closer to its targeted September completion deadline.
Earlier, demolition of the adjacent Laxmi Niwas building—also located along the project alignment—commenced in late March. However, the Haji Noorani building continued to pose challenges for authorities, primarily due to pending rehabilitation concerns involving its occupants.
With the clearance process now underway, officials expect construction activities to accelerate, particularly the completion of critical support structures required for the elevated corridor.
The Sewri–Worli connector is a key infrastructure project aimed at improving east-west connectivity across Mumbai. Once operational, it is expected to ease travel between central and southern parts of the city, reduce congestion on existing routes, and provide faster access across key corridors.
Officials have emphasised the need to adhere to timelines going forward, with the removal of this final obstacle seen as a significant step toward completing the project as scheduled.
Source: The Indian Express
