Bridge collapse may delay launch of Mumbai's new airport terminal

The incident killed 3 people, is being invetigated by MIAL, L&T

The launch of Mumbai airport's integrated terminal may get delayed after a portion of an under construction bridge connecting the highway to  airport collapsed on Wednesday night. Three labourers working on site were killed in the incident which is now being jointly investigated by Mumbai International Airport Limited and Larsen & Toubro which is executing the construction.

The integrated terminal called T2 is expected to be commissioned by September-October. Initially the terminal will handle international flights and domestic operations will commence next year. The elevated road will connect the departure level of the new terminal building and hence a delay in its construction could impact the overall project launch. MIAL did not respond to specific query on project delays.

The elevated road which will link the western express highway to the new terminal is being constructed in two phases. Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority is constructing 2.2 km stretch from highway to Hotel Hyatt Regency and the section beyond is handled by MIAL. Construction of both the phases is being done by Larsen & Toubro. MMRDA expects to complete its stretch by June.

On Wednesday a 35 metre bridge span caved in resulting in death of three workers. "Structural experts have been called and they will examine. The incident occurred on a curve section of the bridge and is a matter of concern. I do not think there will be a time lag due to the incident. If there are no structural defects all that would be required is to recast the span and mount it. The airport terminal is due for opening by October,'' an executive involved in construction said.

"All necessary help is being provided to the affected and their families.Investigations are being carried out to determine the cause of the incident,'' L&T said in a statement.