Frustration is mounting among Vikhroli residents as the long-awaited foot overbridge (FOB) connecting the two sides of the busy Eastern Express Highway remains shut despite authorities indicating that it would become operational from June 10.
With no official opening in sight, many have started crossing the barricades placed at the staircases to access the bridge, citing inconvenience and safety concerns.
Locals say the bridge repair work appears complete and questioned why the facility has not yet been opened. The FOB, which has remained closed for nearly six months for repair and strengthening works, was used by thousands of students, office-goers and senior citizens.
Pressure mounting
Officials had earlier attributed the delay to pending final approvals following changes in the administrative staff concerned. However, with residents increasingly bypassing restrictions, pressure is now growing on authorities to expedite the remaining formalities and open the vital pedestrian link without further delay. mid-day contacted the official concerned, but they were unavailable for comment.
Citizen Speak
Rajesh Patil, daily commuter
‘The barricades have become ineffective as pedestrians routinely move aside the metal sheets and use the staircase. Authorities should either officially open the bridge or clearly explain the reason for the delay. Keeping it shut after the work is complete makes no sense’
Priya Sawant, Vikhroli resident
‘The delay has forced pedestrians to take risky routes. Many students, including me, use this bridge daily to reach colleges on the other side of the highway. Without the FOB, people either walk long distances or try crossing dangerous stretches of road. Crossing the metal sheets and risking getting bruised is better than risking life by crossing the busy highway’
Sanjay Jaiswal, local
We were told that the bridge would be opened by June 10. The work has been completed for days, yet the barricades are still there. People have now started climbing over them because they are tired of waiting.
* This article was originally published here
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