Skywalks to connect malls, offices to nearest Metros

Oberoi Mall, NESCO in Goregaon to be linked to nearby metro stations with foot over bridges

MUMBAI: Those who have visited cities such as Dubai or Singapore might have noticed how metro rail stations there are connected, with foot over bridges, to shopping complexes, residential societies and malls for pedestrians. This might be happening soon in Mumbai as plans are afoot to connect Oberoi Mall, NESCO in Goregaon and nearest metro stations with skywalks or travelators.

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRD) is finalising plans to go through with this connection and it will be the first-time a nearest station of mass transit will be directly linked to commercial offices and shopping complexes.

Presently, people have to walk or take autos, buses and taxis from railway and metro stations to their work places or other popular spots. Now, these places are expected to be connected to stations with foot over bridges and there is a scope of having travelators as well to ease walking.

SVR Srinivas, metropolitan commissioner, MMRDA, said they are working out details for connecting commercial spaces with the nearest metro rail station. “As of now we will be implementing this concept for two private players of Oberoi Mall and NESCO in Goregaon wherein there will be a skywalk connecting it with the metro stations. This will allow people to walk into the premises,” he said.

According to urban planners, this will be a good example of transit-oriented development whereby there shall be ease of walking from mass transit projects to the commercial and residential spaces near it. As per the plans, private developers need to approach the MMRDA, who will vet it to gauge its viability and technical suitability.

Gundavali-Dahisar (E) Line 7, which falls on the Western Express Highway, has commercial offices and connects many residential societies. While Line 2A has more shopping malls and restaurants close to the metro stations apart from residential societies and corporate offices. Sources said that there is scope for extending this plan in other metro stations as well which they will work out as and when there is demand. The necessary infrastructure for these skywalks like the staircases, escalators etc can also be provided. These foot over bridges will be available for everyone and not just for passengers using metro rail.

Two new Metro Routes 2A and 7 attracted a decent number of commuters on Friday. While some of them were plain curious and wanted to see for themselves what the fuss is all about, many wanted to find out if it will be a viable option for their daily commute.