Maharashtra: Construction Of Rail Overbridge At Diva Begins; Central Railway, Thane Municipal Corporation Share Cost

The construction of the rail overbridge has finally commenced in Diva after 14 people died in accidents at the crossing. The project was proposed in 2017, and the Central Railway (CR) and Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) started the work last month. The overbridge is said to be ready in 18 months.

“Both CR and TMC have decided to share 50 per cent of the cost. We will complete the project in 18 months,” said a TMC official as reported by Hindustan Times.

Around four to five lakh motorist and commuters use the railway crossing to move between the east and west side of Diva and accidents often occur at the intersection as the commuters cross the track even while the gate is closed.

“Since 2015, the number of accidents have significantly increased. However, 2018's figures show a slight dip in the number of accidents at the crossing. In many cases, bikers, to save time, cross the railway crossing even when the gate is closed. This is one of the primary cause behind the accidents,” a GRP official from Thane said.

Reportedly, the rail overbridge will be 723 m long and 14.8 m wide and will cost Rs 38.56 crore. Commuters said the rail over-bridge would ensure a safe and faster travel.