The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) achieved a significant milestone by successfully casting the primary foundation cap for the city’s inaugural ‘Shunya’ cable-stayed bridge in Santacruz. This 130-meter-long bridge spans over Vakola nullah and serves as an integral component of the ₹10,986 crore Metro 2B line, linking DN Nagar, Bandra, and Mankhurd.
An MMRDA official has officially confirmed the successful completion of concrete casting for the structure. The oval or ‘Shunya’-shaped element will be positioned at the bridge’s center, providing vital support for the Metro-2B viaduct as it spans over Vakola nullah. The bridge consists of an 80-meter-long primary span that traverses the nullah, with an additional 50 meters dedicated to the anchor span. The completion of a substantial pile cap marks a significant achievement for the ‘Shunya’ Iconic Bridge project,” he further explained.
The pile foundation cap, inclusive of a 45-metric-tonne pedestal, will have a total weight of approximately 197 metric tonnes. The construction’s structural integrity has been safeguarded through concrete quality assessments conducted at various temperatures. Additionally, the official mentioned the incorporation of monitoring instruments and sensors distributed throughout the pile cap to continuously track temperature fluctuations.
Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, the Metropolitan Commissioner of MMRDA, expressed admiration for the ‘Shunya’ Iconic Bridge, highlighting its significance as a remarkable architectural symbol of the concept of “zero” in human history. He praised the exceptional skills of the engineering team, emphasizing their role in bringing this design masterpiece to life. Dr. Mukherjee also commended the consistent efforts of the consultants and contractors involved in the project.
In mid-September, MMRDA made a strategic decision to extend the Metro 2B line, which spans 23.5 kilometers, to include Cheetah Camp, with an additional investment of ₹205 crore. This extended line will traverse key areas such as SV Road, Bandra, Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Kurla, Chembur, Mankhurd, and Mandale, where significant progress is being made in the construction of the metro depot.