In a major milestone for the Mumbai Metro Line 5 project (Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan), the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) successfully launched a 65-metre-long open web girder (OWG) over the Central Railway’s Vasai-Diva line at Anjurphata, Bhiwandi.
This massive steel structure, weighing 456 metric tons, marks a critical achievement in Phase 1 of the Thane-Bhiwandi corridor. The girder crosses a highly sensitive and high-traffic zone—the Thane-Bhiwandi Road metro crossing between Kharbav and Bhiwandi stations—which made its implementation technically challenging. Officials explained that the operation required careful coordination between the MMRDA, Central Railway, and the local traffic police.
The first phase involved pulling 44 meters of the girder into place, followed by the final alignment of the entire 65-meter span. This work took place at a height of 20 meters above ground, in a multi-level environment where the busy Thane-Bhiwandi Road runs at ground level, the Central Railway tracks occupy the first level, and the Metro Viaduct is on the second level.
The OWG was erected in sections using heavy cranes. For final deployment, the girder was lifted into position over temporary supports using 40 Hillman rollers and four strand jacks, assisted by a hydraulic power unit. The entire structure rested on a 400 metric ton steel supporting structure, standing 21 meters tall—a remarkable example of contemporary engineering. The placement of the bearings and the pouring of the deck are scheduled for completion by April 24, 2025. – Manthan Mehta
