The new flyover connecting the eastern and western sides of Vidyavihar railway station is nearing completion, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) targeting October 10 for its opening to traffic. Most construction activities have been finished, while the installation of noise barriers is in its final phase.
The 650-metre, two-lane structure will link Ramchandra Chemburkar Road on the eastern side with Lal Bahadur Shastri Road (LBS Road) on the west. The project includes a 100-metre stretch spanning the railway tracks, along with approach roads measuring 220 metres on the eastern side and 330 metres on the western side.
Additional facilities have been developed to improve access for pedestrians and railway passengers. These include a connection between the flyover and the station’s footpaths. The ticket booking offices, station master’s office and staircases on both sides of the station have also been rebuilt. A staircase now links a pedestrian route within the railway premises to the adjoining sub-road.
The BMC said painting, street lighting and road works have been completed. Noise barriers are being installed to minimise the impact of traffic noise on residents living nearby.
On Thursday, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects) Abhijit Bangar inspected the flyover and surrounding roads alongside traffic police personnel to assess readiness for opening. He instructed civic officials and traffic authorities to coordinate closely to ensure safe and uninterrupted vehicle movement.
The inspection covered traffic flow on adjoining roads, key junctions, signals, vehicle movement and pedestrian safety. Officials were also asked to introduce appropriate measures to avoid congestion once the flyover becomes operational.
The civic body has been directed to put up directional signboards and install barricades wherever required in consultation with the traffic police. Authorities must also prepare a coordinated traffic management plan, particularly for peak-hour movement on approach roads.
Once opened, the flyover is expected to provide a direct east-west connection across Vidyavihar railway station, easing movement for motorists and improving access to the surrounding road network.
Source: The Free Press Journal
