The Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC) has completed construction of a waterproof pedestrian subway near Bhiwandi Road station on the Central Railway’s Panvel–Vasai Road corridor. The new facility is expected to provide a safe and reliable crossing for pedestrians as well as two-wheeler users, significantly improving local mobility in the area.
The underground structure spans 68 metres in length and has an internal dimension of 2.6 metres by 3.0 metres. It has been constructed beneath seven active railway lines using advanced engineering techniques, ensuring that train operations remained uninterrupted throughout the construction phase. The subway has also been designed to withstand heavy freight movement, including traffic from the Dedicated Freight Corridor.
According to MRVC officials, the project involved the placement of four large precast reinforced concrete segments using a specialised hydraulic jacking method. To ensure long-term durability, the structure has been fitted with multiple waterproofing systems such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber gaskets, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) membranes, flexible polyolefin (FPO) joint tapes, and additional sealing technologies to prevent water seepage.
The facility has also been developed with user-friendly features including covered entry and exit ramps, pedestrian walkways, improved lighting, ventilation systems, decorative wall finishes, and efficient drainage arrangements. These elements aim to provide a safe, comfortable, and durable commuting experience for daily users.
MRVC stated that the completion of this technically complex project beneath live railway tracks highlights its focus on modern, safe, and resilient infrastructure development for passengers and local communities.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to upgrade transport infrastructure in Mumbai and surrounding regions, ensuring improved safety and accessibility in high-traffic railway zones.
Source: Mid-day
