Mumbai: The final phase of eviction at Haji Noorani Chawl in Prabhadevi has commenced, removing the last major obstacle for the 4.5-kilometer double-decker Sewri-Worli Elevated Corridor project near the Elphinstone bridge area. With remaining tenants now vacating, a critical stretch of the elevated corridor, implemented by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), is set to advance after months of delay.
Relocation and Rehabilitation Efforts
Officials confirmed that the relocation follows prolonged negotiations, resolution of compensation issues, and finalization of rehabilitation arrangements. Haji Noorani Chawl had stalled construction at a crucial pier location, disrupting timelines for the larger east-west corridor. The chawl houses nine tenants, all of whom have been allotted rehabilitation units in Prabhadevi after earlier resistance to relocation to Wadala.
Demolition and Construction Plans
Once the structure is fully vacated, MMRDA will fence the site and initiate demolition. This will be followed by foundation work for a critical bridge pier that will support a girder segment of the elevated connector. In parallel, MMRDA has issued notices to occupants of three hutments located behind the chawl's staircase, directing them to vacate on safety grounds. Officials clarified that these hutments are not project-affected, but their proximity to the demolition and construction zone poses a risk to life.
Temporary Assistance and Warnings
As per a notice dated April 30, the authority has asked residents to shift voluntarily to ensure safe execution of the project. To facilitate relocation, MMRDA has offered Rs 20,000 per month for six months as temporary assistance. Authorities have warned that eviction action may follow if occupants fail to comply. These hutments are among the last encroachments at the site, and their removal will allow complete access for demolition and subsequent construction activities.
Project Significance and Timeline
The Sewri-Worli connector is a key extension of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link corridor and is expected to improve east-west connectivity, reducing travel time between Sewri and Worli while easing congestion on routes such as Dr Annie Besant Road and Eastern Freeway. Delays due to the pending structure had disrupted girder launching schedules and other civil works. With the bottleneck now easing, MMRDA plans to ramp up construction to recover lost time.
Officials said that once the plot is cleared, work on the delayed stretch will accelerate significantly. The project, once completed, will provide a vital link for commuters in the western suburbs and beyond.
