To tackle mounting traffic congestion on a key section of the Western Express Highway (WEH), the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has revived its proposal to build a flyover connecting Mahim and Bandra (East). The long-delayed infrastructure project has been put back on track, with fresh tenders invited after previous efforts failed to draw interest from contractors. Civic officials believe the renewed push will help decongest one of Mumbai’s busiest arterial routes, where commuters routinely endure prolonged delays, especially during peak hours. The proposed elevated road is expected to offer a smoother alternative for motorists navigating this heavily used corridor.
As reported by Maharashtra Times, the planned flyover will connect Machhimar Colony on Senapati Bapat Marg in Mahim to Bandra (East). This elevated stretch is designed to serve as an alternate route for vehicles that currently get stuck in persistent bottlenecks on the WEH. Traffic congestion generally starts near Mithi Chowk in Bandra (East) and continues up to Dadar, causing slow movement and frequent gridlocks. By creating a direct link between the two suburbs, authorities aim to significantly reduce travel time and ease the burden on existing roads in the vicinity.
The estimated cost of the project stands at approximately Rs 220.17 crore. Spanning more than one kilometre, the proposed flyover is expected to divert a substantial volume of vehicles away from saturated routes between Mahim and Bandra (East). This region already houses important connectors such as the Chunabhatti–BKC flyover and the old Kalanagar flyover, both of which experience heavy traffic. Officials anticipate that the addition of a new elevated corridor will improve overall connectivity and distribute vehicular movement more evenly across the network, ultimately enhancing commuting efficiency for daily travellers.
This initiative has faced setbacks in the past. An initial tender issued in 2022 had to be withdrawn due to technical complications. Subsequently, another tender floated in July 2023 failed to attract any bidders and eventually expired without progress. Determined to move ahead, the civic body’s bridge department has once again issued a fresh tender. Authorities remain optimistic that contractors will participate this time, allowing the long-pending infrastructure development to finally move toward execution after years of delay.
Before construction can commence, the project must secure several regulatory clearances. Since the alignment passes near areas such as Mithi Chowk, approvals from the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) authorities and the Forest Department will be mandatory. The contractor selected for the project will be responsible for obtaining these permissions. Once all approvals are granted and work is completed, the flyover is expected to significantly improve traffic flow between Mahim and Bandra (East), offering long-awaited relief to commuters travelling along one of Mumbai’s most congested stretches.