Dahisar-Bhayander flyover project costs doubles

The Dahisar-Bhayander flyover bridge project, a key element of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) ambitious infrastructure plans, has witnessed a substantial increase in cost, doubling the initial estimate. Despite still being in the tender stage, the project's budget has surged from an initial estimate of 1998.22 crores in July 2023 to a staggering 4027 crores.

The BMC has been actively pursuing various initiatives to combat traffic congestion in Mumbai, including the construction of flyover bridges, road widening projects, and the development of the Coastal road. Given the considerable number of residents from Mira Road and Dahisar who commute to Mumbai for business and employment opportunities, the Dahisar-Bhayander flyover bridge has been considered a vital addition to ease traffic woes.

The project's journey began in June 2022 when the initial estimated cost was Rs.1600 crores. However, the lack of interest from potential bidders prompted consultants to recommend an increase in project costs due to its extensive scope. Subsequently, tenders were invited in October 2022, with the revised cost estimated at ?1998 crores. The recent surge in cost to Rs.4027 crores has received approval from BMC administrators. They attribute this escalation to several factors, including the incorporation of a viewing gallery, installation of CCTV cameras, sound barriers, and GST charges. The project is scheduled to be completed within 42 months, excluding the monsoon season.

Notably, BMC originally intended for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to oversee the project's implementation. However, it was later transferred to BMC by the state government, resulting in BMC assuming all associated costs. The construction of the project has been entrusted to the Land T company.

As the BMC grapples with the increased costs of this critical infrastructure endeavor, its successful completion remains of paramount importance to alleviate the ever-growing traffic congestion in Mumbai.