The Central Railway’s Mumbai Division on Sunday successfully carried out a mega block operation to dismantle a century-old structure at the Prabhadevi Road overbridge. The project concluded on March 22 and marked a key step in ongoing railway infrastructure upgrades.
As per the official statement, the block was undertaken between 12:30 am and 6:45 am, during which two 32-metre-long girders were safely de-launched. Railway officials further highlighted that the operation was completed smoothly within the stipulated time frame without any untoward incidents.
Enhancing commuter safety
The Prabhadevi Road Over Bridge, earlier known as the Elphinstone Road bridge, is a crucial link in the suburban railway network of Mumbai. The removal of ageing girders, which are over 100 years old, is part of efforts to modernise infrastructure and enhance commuter safety.
While the project was finished in the given time frame, the operation did pose several challenges.
Challenges
Officials said that the worksite had limited approach road width, making it difficult to deploy and manoeuvre heavy cranes. Additionally, the delicate task of safely dismantling such old girders required precise engineering and careful handling.
Another significant challenge involved shifting Temporary Overhead Equipment (OHE) arrangements within the restricted block period. However, the teams deployed for the operation successfully managed this transition, ensuring the work progressed without disruption.
Officials praised the coordinated efforts of engineering and operational teams, stating that the successful completion of the mega block highlights the division’s capability to execute complex infrastructure works efficiently while maintaining safety and operational discipline.
Western Railway installs 3-metre fencing near Bandra
The Western Railway, on March 12, began installing a 3-metre-high railing along a 150-metre stretch near Garib Nagar in Bandra East to prevent garbage dumping and trespassing on railway tracks.
“As of March 9, fencing covering 37 route metres has been completed. Of the 50 foundations planned, 48 have been prepared, 33 cast, and 90 columns erected,” a WR official said.
Slum concern
Bandra East has long been a dense slum pocket along the railway tracks, posing safety concerns for train operations. Authorities have been working to prevent the expansion of multi-storey slum structures near the operational lines. As a safety measure, several entry and exit points to the Bandra Terminus have already been restricted.
Waste problem
Officials said that in the past year alone, around 1875 cubic metres of waste were cleared from the area. The fencing is expected to curb dumping and restrict direct access to railway land from adjoining settlements, reducing sanitation risks and operational hazards.
Spare line
A railway line connecting the terminus with the southern end and the main line passes through a tightly packed slum cluster on both sides. The track is primarily used for locomotive transfers and, occasionally, train diversions during peak hours, making the stretch operationally sensitive.
