The Mumbai traffic police have announced that the iconic Elphinstone Bridge will be closed to traffic starting September 10, as part of a major redevelopment project.
Anil Kumbhare, Joint Commissioner of Traffic, informed mid-day, “A notice regarding the closure was issued back in April this year, and it remains valid. Now it is up to the MMRDA to take necessary measures for the rehabilitation of affected areas and commuters. We will begin the closure as planned on September 10.”
The closure is part of a larger project to replace the ageing bridge with a modern double-decker structure designed to accommodate significantly more commuters.
Strategically located, the Elphinstone Bridge connects the busy central Mumbai neighbourhoods of Prabhadevi and Parel. The bridge spans over two major railway stations—Prabhadevi and Parel—serving two different railway lines. According to the Regional Transport Office (RTO), these lines handle an estimated 500,000 to 700,000 commuters daily, making the bridge a critical link for both local residents and office-goers.
The surrounding areas comprise a mix of old buildings and modern commercial spaces, including some of Mumbai’s most prestigious offices. The bridge’s proximity to residential colonies, schools, and prominent hospitals such as Tata Memorial Hospital and KEM Hospital further underscores its importance, as thousands of people rely on this route for daily commutes and essential visits.
The decision to close the bridge follows discussions earlier this year. In the first week of February, key government agencies—including the MMRDA, Mumbai traffic police, and the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (MRIDC)—met to discuss the elevated Sewri-Worli connector project. The Elphinstone Bridge plays a vital role in this project, making its timely replacement essential for the broader infrastructure development plan in central Mumbai.
Authorities have assured commuters that detailed traffic management plans and alternate routes will be announced well in advance to minimise disruption. Residents and daily commuters are urged to stay updated on official notifications to avoid inconvenience during the bridge closure.
The Elphinstone ROB is the fifth British-era bridge in Mumbai to be shut down. Earlier, the authorities stopped traffic at the Sion ROB, Carnac Bridge, Bellasis Bridge, and Reay Road Bridge to reconstruct them for better use.
(With inputs from Ritika Gondhalekar)
