Elphinstone Bridge in Mumbai to be demolished by April

Mumbai's Elphinstone Bridge, which has stood for 125 years, is set to be demolished by April 10. This action is part of a larger project to build a new double-decker bridge under the Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector plan. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has finalized the necessary clearances for the demolition. This bridge is an essential route in central Mumbai, connecting key areas. The new structure is expected to reduce traffic congestion, which has increased due to nearby developments. Before the monsoon season, MMRDA aims to complete one level of the new bridge by April 2026. The existing bridge will be closed to vehicles once final permissions are obtained. Traffic will be directed to the Curry Road Bridge and Tilak Bridge during this time. Pedestrians will still have access through a foot overbridge near Parel Station, which will not require a ticket. A new footbridge near Prabhadevi Station is also almost finished to help with pedestrian movement. Ambulances will be stationed nearby to ensure emergency services remain accessible. The demolition was initially planned for February but was delayed to coordinate with multiple government agencies. This was necessary to avoid conflicts with school board examinations. The new double-decker bridge will have four lanes, while the current bridge is narrower with only 1.5 lanes in each direction. The overall Sewri-Worli project is about 60% complete.