Transformation of Mumbai’s Bellasis Bridge: Modern Steel Marvel 2023
Mumbai, often referred to as the “City of Dreams,” is a bustling metropolis known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and ever-evolving infrastructure.
Among its many architectural treasures, the Bellasis Bridge has stood as a testament to the city’s past for over a century. However, the time has come for this historic structure to make way for a modern steel marvel that will better serve the needs of Mumbai’s rapidly growing population.
The ageing Bellasis Bridge in Mumbai’s busy island metropolis will soon be replaced by a brand-new cable-stayed steel bridge. The renovation is necessary in order to meet the city’s rising traffic needs.
According to The Indian Express, the demolition of the century-old Bellasis Bridge, which connects Nagpada to Tardeo on the west and east, would usher in a new age of connectivity, in only four months. Bellasis Bridge is a Railway Overbridge (ROB) that crosses over railway tracks and is located in the island city between Mumbai Central and Grant Road.
The Bellasis Bridge, named after its British architect, Sir John Bellasis, was built in 1910 during the British colonial era. This engineering marvel spans over the railway tracks at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), one of the city’s most iconic railway stations.
The bridge served as a vital link connecting the eastern and western parts of the city, allowing vehicular and pedestrian traffic to pass over the bustling railway tracks.
Key Features of Bellasis Bridge:
The Bellasis Bridge boasts an elegant design featuring intricate ironwork and decorative elements that are reminiscent of the colonial architectural style. Its ornate arches and lattice railings have made it a cherished landmark in the heart of Mumbai.
The bridge is strategically located near CST, providing a crucial transportation link for both locals and tourists. It played a significant role in Mumbai’s transport network for many decades.
The next bridge will have a cable-stayed design and be mostly made of durable steel with a concrete foundation. The carriageways will be noticeably broader, which will significantly improve traffic flow. A significant improvement over the current clearance of around five metres, the clearance over the railway tracks will be raised to nearly 6.5 metres.
Bellasis Bridge is a tangible reminder of Mumbai’s colonial past and has been featured in numerous films, photographs, and artworks. It has become an integral part of the city’s historical narrative.
The Bellasis Bridge is special because a sizeable piece of it crosses over railway tracks while a sizeable portion is under the control of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The bridge part that crosses over railway lines will thus be demolished and rebuilt under the supervision of the Western Railway, while the BMC will handle this task for the remaining length.
The enlarged carriageways of the new bridge will significantly reduce traffic congestion, ensuring a more comfortable commute. In addition, the use of a strong steel framework would boost durability and safety, allaying worries about the present bridge’s deteriorating state, which is afflicted by corrosion in various places.
While the Bellasis Bridge holds immense historical and cultural significance, several factors have necessitated its replacement:
- Structural Integrity: Over the years, the Bellasis Bridge has faced wear and tear, and its structural integrity has been compromised. The need for extensive repairs and maintenance has become a financial burden.
- Congestion: Mumbai’s population has grown exponentially, leading to increased traffic congestion in the vicinity of CST. The narrow lanes and limited capacity of the old bridge are no longer sufficient to accommodate the heavy flow of vehicles.
- Modernization: The city’s infrastructure needs have evolved, requiring more efficient and technologically advanced structures to support Mumbai’s continued growth.
Replacing the Bellasis Bridge is an ambitious project that promises to bring significant improvements to the area:
- Enhanced Capacity: The new bridge will be designed to accommodate more lanes for vehicular traffic, reducing congestion and improving the flow of vehicles in this vital corridor.
- Modern Materials: The replacement bridge will be constructed using state-of-the-art steel and concrete materials, ensuring durability and longevity. It will meet modern safety and engineering standards.
- Aesthetic Appeal: While the Bellasis Bridge will be replaced, efforts will be made to preserve its architectural heritage by incorporating design elements that pay homage to the original structure. The new bridge is expected to be an aesthetically pleasing addition to the city’s skyline.
- Pedestrian-Friendly: To cater to the needs of pedestrians, the new bridge will have designated walkways and improved facilities, enhancing safety and convenience.
The estimated cost of replacing the Bellasis Bridge with a modern steel marvel is approximately INR 300 crores (around $40 million USD). This includes demolition, design, construction, and landscaping costs. The project is expected to take approximately two years to complete, with construction commencing once all necessary approvals and clearances are obtained.
The replacement of Mumbai’s iconic Bellasis Bridge with a modern steel marvel marks a significant milestone in the city’s ongoing transformation and growth.
While it is bittersweet to bid farewell to a historical gem, the new bridge promises to offer improved infrastructure, enhanced safety, and increased convenience for the people of Mumbai.
As construction progresses, the city will look forward to embracing this new symbol of progress while preserving the memory of the Bellasis Bridge in its collective history.
