Mumbai: The second arm of Malad’s Mith Chowky flyover was opened to motorists in the presence of local MP and Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday.

Although the opening event was scheduled for January 14, civic officials had initially hesitated to hold a program due to previous clashes between BJP and Congress workers. However, to everyone's surprise, Goyal announced that the flyover was open to the public during his visit to the site on Saturday.

The first phase of the flyover was inaugurated by MP Piyush Goyal in October 2024. Congress supporters of Malad MLA Aslam Shaikh put up banners claiming he deserved credit for the project, while BJP workers countered with banners featuring Goyal, stating he expedited the work.

This led to a political scuffle between the two parties. Fearing the similarly tension between both the parties civic officials decided to open the flyover next week without any formal inauguration. 

During a review of the flyover work on Saturday evening, MP Piyush Goyal announced that the bridge was open to the public. "BJP workers, noting the flyover was ready and with the upcoming Makar Sankranti and Pongal festivals, urged Goyal for an immediate opening, leading to the decision to open it ahead of schedule," according to civic officials.

However, local sources indicated the flyover was opened without prior announcement to avoid any tension or credit claims from Congress party workers. MLA Aslam Shaikh was unavailable for comment.

"This second wing of the flyover represents our dedication to creating reliable infrastructure that improves the quality of life for Mumbaikars. By completing this phase on time, we are bringing tangible solutions to long-standing traffic issues," said Goyal.

The 800 metres T shaped flyover is designed with two main arms to ease traffic flow and improve connectivity in the region. The eastern arm originates near the Girdhar Park Bridge, passing over the Malad Creek and extending above the traffic junction. 

The west side landing of the flyover is near St. Joseph’s School. This arm caters to vehicles traveling towards Malad Station, the Western Express Highway (WEH), and those coming from Kandivali, Malvani, and Madh Island. 

* The construction of flyover was challenging due to the presence of the Metro 2A line running directly above the flyover.

* Cost of the project Rs 55 crores

* Length: flyover A - 390 m...flyover B - 235.50 m

Width : 8.0 m....5.50m

* Flyover is only for light motor vehicles.