Mumbai: Commuters stare at 1.5-yr wait for Matunga’s Z Bridge

CR and civic body have put up a bridge closure notice for commuters at Matunga

A crucial pedestrian connector between the two Matungas on Central Railway and Western Railway, also popular as the Z Bridge, has been shut to the public since January 1 for upgrade and strengthening. The Central Railway has promised to open it within 18 months.

The bridge was last repaired in 2016. It is a crucial link between the East and West and is used by lakhs of officegoers, students and residents. "This is the closest and easiest way to go from East to West for pedestrians since it is linked to the station. The next closest link is a little ahead towards the north end where an old level crossing was located. However, that way is a bit of a detour. At the south end, the only way is through Dadar station," V Ramakrishnan, a regular user of the Z Bridge said.

"Exam season is approaching and the closure has affected us all badly. The bridge is the shortest way to commute to the other side of Matunga," Rakesh Meshram, another student commuter said.

"There are several municipal schools in the area, including IES and Raja Shivaji school complex, colleges like Ruia, Ruparel, Khalsa, VJTI and Welingkar, and a vegetable market, a flower market and lots of temples which attract countless commuters daily," Vishwas Nikam, another resident said.

Railway officials said that safety was paramount and that upgrading and strengthening the bridge was important at this point.

"Dismantling of the Z Bridge's major support pillars and the demolition of its arches is in progress. Machines have been mobilised and work on the foundation is in progress. The work is going fast and will be completed within the targetted time. It will take about 18 months to complete the work thoroughly," a CR official said.

2016
Year bridge was last repaired

Jan 1
Day this year bridge was closed