The Byculla ROB project has reached 60 percent completion and is set to revolutionize the traffic landscape in Mumbai. The project, which aims to replace the existing ROB with a modern cable-stayed bridge, is slated for completion by October 2025. According to sources, the ROB was earlier slated to be completed in 2024, but was delayed due to encroachment issues.
“The existing Byculla ROB, which connects east and west near Byculla Railway Station on the Eastern Express Highway, has outlived its design lifespan. To address this, the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (MahaRail) is constructing an impressive cable-stayed bridge adjacent to the existing ROB structure. Once completed, the cable-stayed bridge will become an iconic symbol of modern Mumbai, after which the old ROB can be strengthened,” said an official.
Byculla ROB Project | FPJ/ Vijay Gohil
Byculla ROB Project | FPJ/ Vijay Gohil
According to the official, this cable-stayed bridge will have four lanes, expanding the existing two lanes to accommodate the ever-growing traffic demands of the city. This expansion is not just about easing congestion but also about making commuting more efficient for the residents of Mumbai.
Typically, many utility lines, such as electrical and telephone lines, are run over bridges. These wires can be hazardous and cause fatal accidents. To address this, MahaRail has developed a new system integrated into the crash barrier, featuring state-of-the-art utility ducts (3-tier). This system will provide a safer assembly for laying, inspecting, repairing, and replacing utilities without compromising public safety. MahaRail has developed a separate cable duct for utilities that passes through ducts in the crash barriers of Road Over Bridges. The advantage of this method is that it ensures all cables remain within the duct, protected from outside elements and potential accidents, enhancing public safety.
Byculla ROB Project | FPJ/ Vijay Gohil
Byculla ROB Project | FPJ/ Vijay Gohil
Additionally, the bridge will feature state-of-the-art decorative LED signature theme lighting, which blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, enhancing the visual appeal of the structure. Remote-controlled architectural LED lighting will be installed over the bridge to ensure safety and visibility during nighttime hours. Tri-color lighting will illuminate the bridge on special occasions, such as Independence Day and Republic Day.
Furthermore, designated selfie points will be incorporated into the design. These points will allow people to capture memorable moments against the backdrop of this iconic structure, creating lasting memories and sharing them on social media.
Apart from that specialized DEC will be used for the erection work over the vegetable market area and railway line, which is the main bottleneck for the construction of the main cable span of the bridge.
“Once the new bridge is completed, traffic from the existing bridge will be diverted to the new one. As part of the transition process, one span of the existing ‘Y’ Bridge will be dismantled and connected to the new cable-stayed bridge. This planning by MahaRail ensures a smooth transition while preserving the historical significance of the existing Byculla ROB, as well as ensuring uninterrupted traffic to and from CSMT” further added official.
Main Features of the ROB:
Length: 916 meters (including approaches)
Height of the bridge: 9.70 meters
Pylon Height: 50 meters
Lanes: 4 lanes
Cost: Rs. 287 Crores
Selfie Points: 1
