The closure of the century-old Elphinstone bridge has left commuters and residents grappling with chaos, and frontline healthcare workers struggling the most. Doctors and staff at KEM, Nair, and Wadia hospitals say diversions have tripled their travel time, piling on financial strain, personal stress, and professional hurdles.

“My hostel is near KEM Hospital, and I work at Nair Hospital. I would use the bridge daily. Since we work at BMC hospitals and often visit PHCs, Elphinstone was the only quick connector. I earlier spent Rs 50 to Rs 60 one way. Now I spend R150 one way, and what took 20 minutes now takes almost an hour,” said Dr Rupali Rajput.