Sion Railway Bridge Reconstruction Nears Completion

The reconstruction of the Sion railway bridge in Mumbai is nearing completion, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Central Railway aiming to open it to the public by September 30, 2026. This is several months ahead of the official February 2027 deadline.

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde visited the construction site on September 2 and inspected the reconstruction work of the railway overbridge near Sion station. During the inspection, Tawde expressed satisfaction with the pace of the work and instructed officials to ensure that the final finishing work is carried out to high standards.

The 112-year-old bridge was taken up for reconstruction as part of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP-2), which involves laying the fifth and sixth railway lines between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Kurla. The reconstruction of the main bridge within railway limits is being carried out by Central Railway, while the renewal and strengthening of the approach roads falling within municipal limits are being undertaken by the BMC's Bridges Department in coordination with the Railways.

The project cost is being borne from Railway funds. The existing bridge was completely closed to vehicular traffic from August 1, 2024, following permission from the Traffic Police. To minimise inconvenience to local residents and pedestrians, the demolition and reconstruction work was undertaken in phases.

In the first phase, the northern portion of the bridge was demolished while the southern portion remained accessible to pedestrians. Central Railway has since progressed with work on both girders of the bridge. Concreting of the deck slabs on both girders has been completed, while work on crash barriers and the concrete wearing coat is currently underway.

Central Railway has also completed construction of a new pedestrian bridge and opened it to the public. The remaining portion of the old bridge has also been demolished. Tawde suggested exploring options such as greenery and vertical gardens along the divider and on both sides of the bridge.

The completion of the Sion railway bridge reconstruction is expected to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion in the area. The project is a significant infrastructure development in Mumbai, and its completion will have a positive impact on the city's transportation network.

The BMC and Central Railway are working together to ensure that the bridge is opened to the public by the target date of September 30, 2026. The reconstruction of the Sion railway bridge is a major infrastructure project in Mumbai, and its completion will be a significant milestone in the city's development.

The project's completion will not only improve traffic flow but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area. The suggestion to include greenery and vertical gardens along the divider and on both sides of the bridge will add to the beauty of the area and make it more pedestrian-friendly.

In conclusion, the reconstruction of the Sion railway bridge is nearing completion, and the BMC and Central Railway are working together to ensure that it is opened to the public by September 30, 2026. The project is a significant infrastructure development in Mumbai, and its completion will have a positive impact on the city's transportation network and aesthetic appeal.