The recently opened Vikhroli bridge in Mumbai, which links LBS Marg to the Eastern Express Highway (EEH), has become a cause of concern just two weeks after its launch.
Despite easing connectivity, the 615-metre, three-lane structure is now facing major traffic issues, as per Hindustan Times.
Commuters report that crossing the bridge takes over 30 minutes during peak hours. With no road median and five speedbreakers, average speeds barely cross 5 km/h.
At the western end, traffic piles up as vehicles wait for the green signal to merge onto LBS Marg. The situation is worse at the eastern end, where multiple roads converge but no traffic signal exists.
A Confusing Junction
The eastern end, connecting to EEH, sees utter chaos as roads from Tagore Nagar, Kannamwar Nagar, and Vikhroli station all merge at a single junction. An official from the BMC鈥檚 bridges department admitted the layout is too complex and unregulated.
Design Flaws Add to the Mess
The bridge鈥檚 design is drawing sharp criticism. It is bi-directional, lacks a proper median, and becomes three-lane midway. Auto rickshaws and other vehicles are often seen using the wrong lanes to overtake, raising serious safety concerns.
Local Residents Upset
Residents of Kannamwar Nagar are furious. 鈥淲e warned the authorities before the bridge was opened,鈥 said Sanjay Yelve of the Vikhrolikar Vikas Manch. 鈥淣ow, we鈥檙e stuck with long detours and heavy traffic every day.鈥
Authorities Respond
To manage the growing chaos, five traffic police officers have been deployed at the eastern junction during peak hours. BMC official Abhijeet Bangar said land acquisition is underway to widen the narrow approach road, and a roundabout is also being considered.
What鈥檚 Next?
Anil Kumbhare, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), added that a beautification wall is blocking the way for road expansion. Once it鈥檚 shifted and signals are installed, traffic flow is expected to improve.