Mumbai: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) successfully launched the final span for the Santacruz-Chembur Link Road (SCLR) extension project above the Vakola Flyover. This development raises hopes that this crucial section could open before the monsoon.
The under-construction cable-stayed section will complete the SCLR extension by linking it to Vakola Junction on the WEH, marking the final step in this ambitious infrastructure project.
The project posed significant engineering challenges, as it involves constructing a cable-stayed bridge with a sharp 90-degree curve and a 100-metre radius—an unprecedented feat in Asia. A senior MMRDA official said, “The work had to be executed without disrupting traffic on the busy Western Express Highway (WEH).” Initially, the contractor, J. Kumar Infraprojects, planned to launch the entire 29-metre-long, 10.5-metre-wide span in a single operation, which would have required a complete shutdown of WEH traffic. However, simulation trials revealed that even with a 1,000-tonne crane, the 300-metric-tonne span could not be lifted and installed in one go. The span was then split into two segments, weighing 140 metric tonnes and 160 metric tonnes, respectively. The revised plan involved using two 800-tonne cranes to simultaneously lift and install the segments, minimising traffic disruption.
The official added, “The erection of the cable-stayed span will be followed by the laying of concrete and installation of cables to support the bridge’s unique design.”
This project represents one of the most challenging engineering undertakings in Asia. It marks the first time that a 215-metre-long cable-stayed span with a 90-degree curve and a 100-metre radius has been designed and executed. The bridge stands 22 metres above ground, with 9 metres of clearance above the existing Vakola Flyover.
A cable-stayed design was chosen to accommodate longer spans, sharp curves, and higher stress loads compared to traditional concrete bridges.
