Vehicles ply on the Parel TT bridge on October 2. Pic/Ashish Raje
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Mumbaikars’ traffic woes don’t seem to be ending as another crucial vehicular connector – Parel TT bridge on Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Road – is likely to be shut and rebuilt soon. A decision in this regard will be taken on Tuesday. According to officials, the structure’s expansion joints are badly damaged.
An official from the bridges department of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said, “This bridge needed major repairs as soon as possible. Currently, only light vehicular traffic is allowed on it. In June, we received tentative permission from the traffic police to close this bridge from October.”
Parel TT bridge on October 2. Pic/Ashish Raje
The official added, “In our recent discussion with the traffic department, they have expressed concerns about traffic woes in central Mumbai as Delisle Road bridge has not yet been opened to vehicles entirely. Therefore, if the Parel TT bridge is closed, south-central Mumbai may see massive traffic snarls. The traffic police have highlighted this possibility.”
Officials of the BMC and the traffic department will take a call on shutting the bridge in a meeting today. According to reports, Delisle Road bridge, which has been shut since 2018, will be completely opened in November. The 300-metre-long Parel TT bridge is more than 40 years old. It has 44 joints and after repairs, they will be reduced to three, ensuring a smoother ride for motorists. The damaged joints were causing vehicles to jerk, accordingto officials.
“The reconstruction will be carried out as per modern standards,” said an official. The civic body will construct a 60-metre-long solid ramp on the bridge, which will help to keep a 60-metre stretch under the road open for traffic. The reconstruction of the bridge will take at least six months and the estimated cost of the project is Rs 17 crore. “Soon we decide if there is a need for a girder or a solid ramp,” the official added. Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Road connects the eastern side of the suburbs and the city.
44
No of joints on bridge
300M
Length of bridge