A vital temporary road in Navi Mumbai’s Taloja area, constructed from the debris of a recently demolished bridge over a canal connected to the Taloja river at Ghot Camp, has been completely broken down and swept away following heavy pre-monsoon rains on May 26th. This incident has caused considerable disruption for thousands of residents. The full extent of the trouble has been somewhat mitigated by the fact that schools and colleges are currently closed for holidays.
The affected passage was the sole connecting route for Ghot Camp with the rest of Taloja. It served as a critical link for commuters travelling out of Taloja and those working in the Taloja MIDC area, where an alternative, longer route also exists.
The old bridge was removed to facilitate the construction of a new, two-section bridge. One section of this new structure, designed for inbound traffic, is nearing completion, while the second, for outbound traffic, remains largely unfinished and will require at least several months for full usability. The old bridge’s debris had been utilised to form the makeshift road and concurrently act as a temporary blockage for the canal’s water flow. Notably, the contractor had inserted pipes through this debris to permit water passage.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued an alert for coastal Maharashtra, including Navi Mumbai and Mumbai, forecasting thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds, with a possibility of heavy rainfall. The subsequent heavy downpour on May 26th caused the canal to overflow with force, completely breaking down and sweeping away the temporary road despite the installed pipes. As of Thursday, May 29th, the canal’s water level has receded to a gentle flow; however, the temporary road remains entirely broken and unusable.
Commuters now face significant delays. Vehicle users are compelled to take a considerably longer alternative route through the MIDC area. Meanwhile, pedestrians are resorting to crossing via the under-construction bridge, which has been temporarily fitted with planks to enable passage.
Amidst these challenges, the contractor responsible for the new bridge was observed working to restore the temporary road, aiming to facilitate smoother movement for commuters. Despite these efforts, an immediate, permanent solution remains elusive, given the current state of the new bridge’s construction and the lack of a comprehensive alternative road plan for the interim, especially concerning the potential impact once academic institutions reopen.
Last Updated on May 29, 2025 by Staff Reporter
