Controversy Erupts Over Mira-Bhiander Flyover: Is It an Engineering Marvel or a “Death Trap”?

The newly constructed Mira-Bhiander flyover in Mira Road, reportedly costing around ₹100 crore, has sparked widespread controversy. The four-lane bridge unexpectedly narrows to two lanes, drawing complaints that have reached Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Public Outcry Over Design

Constructed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the flyover’s design has become a hot topic on social media, where users are mocking the engineers and contractors. Citizens have expressed safety concerns, dubbing it a “death bridge” due to the sudden lane reduction.

Anand Dubey, a leader from the Uddhav faction, wrote to the CM highlighting that the bridge’s design appears abrupt and endangers commuters. He demanded a strict investigation against the MMRDA, contractors, and consulting companies, calling for accountability and suggesting that companies compromising public safety be blacklisted.

MMRDA’s Explanation

Officials clarified that the lane reduction is part of the planned design, intended to manage traffic efficiently at busy junctions like Golden Nest Circle. The flyover connects to Metro lines with a 2+2 lane design on one side, while the section leading to Bhiander East narrows to a 1+1 lane with ramps, due to restricted land availability. Future expansion plans include additional lanes to maintain smooth east-west traffic flow.

MMRDA emphasized that the reduction from four to two lanes is not a flaw but a strategic adjustment considering current road width and future traffic plans. The bridge is designed with two lanes for Bhiander East and provisions for two lanes for Bhiander West in the future, ensuring long-term connectivity and traffic management.

Social Media Reacts

Despite official clarification, social media debates continue. Many have criticized the flyover, calling it a “₹100 crore death trap,” while others sarcastically refer to the engineers as “miracle makers.” Numerous memes mocking the flyover’s design have gone viral.

The flyover, intended to complement the ambitious Metro Line 9 project and ease traffic congestion, has instead become a subject of public ridicule. Questions remain about whether MMRDA’s approval of the design adequately considered safety and high-speed traffic flow.

Conclusion

While authorities insist that the design follows traffic engineering norms and allows for future expansion, public skepticism and criticism persist. The Mira-Bhiander flyover now stands at the center of a heated debate, balancing between being seen as an engineering solution or a potential hazard.