Kalyan: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has asked the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for constructing a six-lane bridge parallel to the existing British-era bridge over the Ulhas River between Shahad and Ambivli, marking a significant step towards improving connectivity between Kalyan, Titwala and adjoining villages.The development follows a demand raised by KDMC mayor Harshali Chaudhari-Thavil, who recently met deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde and sought MMRDA funding of around Rs 110 crore for the proposed bridge.Speaking to TOI, Chaudhari-Thavil said rapid urbanisation and the increasing number of vehicles had put immense pressure on the existing bridge, which struggles to accommodate the growing volume of traffic. Congestion on the narrow crossing frequently disrupts commuter movement and can delay emergency services, including ambulances, fire brigade vehicles and police personnel.The mayor said several localities under KDMC’s A ward, including Vadavali, Atali, Ambivli, Mohone, Titwala, Moheli and Galegaon, were witnessing rapid residential and industrial development. A modern six-lane bridge, along with the necessary approach roads and connecting infrastructure, would improve access between these areas and Kalyan city, she said.“Taking serious note of my demand, deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde has directed the authorities to take the proposal forward. Kalyan MP Dr Shrikant Shinde has also assured support in securing funds for the project. I am happy that MMRDA has now written to KDMC’s city engineer, asking the civic body to complete the necessary groundwork and submit a detailed report,” Chaudhari-Thavil said.According to the mayor, the report will have to include details of land availability, road length and width, proposed alignment maps, existing ground conditions and other technical information required to assess the feasibility of the project.The proposed bridge is expected to provide additional road capacity and ease pressure on the existing crossing, which serves commuters travelling between Kalyan, Titwala and surrounding settlements.Once KDMC submits the report and fulfils the required technical parameters, MMRDA will take up the proposal for administrative approval and subsequent tendering.
