Crane Topples on Two-Wheeler Rider on Mumbai’s Eastern Express Highway
Mumbai witnessed a tragic and chaotic scene on the Eastern Express Highway near Vikhroli on Saturday, December 14, after a piling crane overturned, resulting in a serious accident that critically injured a two-wheeler rider and caused extensive traffic delays.
Accident Details
The incident occurred in the early hours on Ramabai Bridge near Ghatkopar when the crane, loaded on a trailer traveling from Alibaug to Bhandup, tipped over due to a broken securing rope while descending the bridge. Tragically, the crane fell on a two-wheeler, crushing the vehicle and severely injuring its rider. Witnesses reported that the impact was so severe that the rider’s legs were separated from his torso. The injured man was rushed to Sion Hospital, where his condition remains critical.
मुंबईत पूर्व द्रुतगती मार्गावर भीषण अपघात! दुचाकीस्वारावर क्रेन उलटली, तरुणाचे पाय धडपासून वेगळे, वाहतूक ठप्प#ghatkopar #accident #Mumbai pic.twitter.com/nKS29aId71
— Hindustan Times Marathi (@htmarathi) December 14, 2024
Traffic Disruptions and Diversions
The accident caused immediate disruption to vehicular movement. Authorities closed the Ghatkopar Bridge to traffic for over six hours to facilitate the removal of the overturned crane and ensure public safety. Traffic on this stretch of the Eastern Express Highway was diverted to service roads, leading to significant congestion.
Mumbai Traffic Police issued an advisory on X (formerly Twitter), alerting commuters to the slow-moving traffic near Vikhroli Godrej Gate on the northbound route. They urged motorists to plan alternative routes while the accident site was being cleared.
अवजड वाहनांच्या बिघाडामुळे विक्रोळी गोदरेज गेट येथे उत्तरेकडे जाणारी वाहतूक संथ गतीने सुरू आहे.
— Mumbai Traffic Police (@MTPHereToHelp) December 14, 2024
Traffic Movement Is Slow At Vikhroli Godrej Gate North Bound Due To Heavy Vehicle Breakdown.#MTPtrafficUpdate
Eyewitness Accounts and Rescue Efforts
A video shared by news agency ANI captured the crane lying overturned on the road, surrounded by debris and onlookers. Authorities and local police were seen managing the situation and conducting investigations. The accident site attracted a large crowd, further complicating traffic management efforts.
Ongoing Investigations
Initial reports suggest that the crane’s rope broke while the trailer descended the bridge, leading to the accident. Police and relevant authorities are probing the incident to determine any lapses in safety protocols or negligence.
This tragic event has raised concerns about the safety of transporting heavy machinery through densely populated urban areas. Motorists are advised to remain cautious and adhere to police advisories while navigating the Eastern Express Highway.
