Rs 248-crore Mumbai's Mrinaltai Gore flyover triggers public anger as patchy road surface raises quality concerns

Within hours of the Rs 248-crore Mrinaltai Gore flyover extension opening to traffic, social media users flagged multiple uneven and patchy stretches on the newly laid road surface, raising concerns about the quality of the work.

Following public complaints, mayor Ritu Tawde announced a site inspection of the flyover. She said action would be sought against the contractor and concerned officials if the work is found to be below the required standards.

BMC maintained that the visible roughness and patchy appearance are part of the mastic asphalt laying process. Officials said stone chippings are intentionally spread to improve friction and provide better skid resistance for vehicles.

According to BMC, freshly laid 40mm-thick mastic asphalt often appears rough and uneven, especially where manual work is involved. The civic body said the surface is expected to look more uniform after regular vehicular movement.

BMC said a technical inspection by its bridges department found no evidence of structural deficiencies, design flaws, workmanship defects or surfacing failures on the newly opened flyover extension.

Responding to complaints about noticeable joints on the road, BMC stated that such joints are a normal part of the technical process involved in laying mastic asphalt and do not indicate any problem with the structure.

Despite official assurances, many commuters and residents questioned the quality of the project. Social media posts highlighted concerns over the patchy appearance and expressed doubts about how the road had cleared quality checks.

The mayor said that if the inspection reveals substandard work, she will seek an independent technical audit. She added that accountability would be fixed and appropriate action taken if deficiencies are established.