Sion ROB Reconstruction Hits Milestone with 500 Tonne Girder Launch

The reconstruction of the Sion Road Over Bridge (ROB) has reached a significant milestone with the successful launch of the second 500-tonne semi-through steel girder. This achievement marks the completion of the launching of both main girders of the new bridge within a remarkably short period of two days.

The second girder was launched during a specially planned night corridor block between Matunga and Kurla, following the successful launching of the first girder earlier. Both massive steel girders were positioned over the operational railway corridor through carefully planned night blocks, enabling the challenging works to be executed within the limited block duration while minimising disruption to suburban train operations.

The reconstruction of the Sion ROB is being undertaken in connection with the CSMT–Kurla 5th and 6th line project, one of Mumbai’s major railway capacity enhancement projects. Each girder weighs approximately 500 tonnes with an overall span of about 54.5 metres. Launching such massive steel structures over active railway tracks in a densely built urban environment required meticulous planning, detailed engineering arrangements, precise equipment handling and close coordination among Central Railway and the executing agency.

The girder was fabricated at Nagpur and subsequently assembled at the site on the east-end approach. Extensive preparatory works including erection of temporary trestles, launching arrangements, hydraulic systems, winching arrangements, alignment checks and comprehensive safety preparations were undertaken prior to the launching operation.

With both main girders now successfully launched and positioned, the project has entered the next phase of deck slab construction, road approaches, road surfacing, crash barriers and other associated works. The new ROB is being constructed with a wider railway span of approximately 54.5 metres, compared with about 40 metres in the earlier structure.

The increased span is essential for accommodating the proposed additional railway lines under the CSMT–Kurla 5th and 6th line project. Once commissioned, the reconstructed Sion ROB will restore vital east-west road connectivity between the Eastern Express Highway, LBS Road and Dharavi Road, providing substantial relief to commuters and reducing dependence on longer alternative routes following the closure of the old bridge.

The successful launching of these girders reflects the coordinated efforts, meticulous planning and round-the-clock execution by Central Railway, bringing the long-awaited reconstruction of the Sion ROB closer to completion. This project is a significant step forward in enhancing the railway capacity and improving the overall infrastructure of Mumbai.

The reconstruction of the Sion ROB is expected to have a positive impact on the daily commute of thousands of Mumbaikars, who have been facing difficulties due to the closure of the old bridge. With the new bridge expected to be commissioned soon, commuters can look forward to a smoother and more convenient travel experience.

In conclusion, the successful launch of the 500-tonne girders marks a major milestone in the reconstruction of the Sion ROB, and the project is now moving forward with the next phase of construction. The completion of this project will not only improve the railway capacity but also provide relief to commuters and enhance the overall infrastructure of Mumbai.