The Roche Bois Footbridge across Motorway M2 is being upgraded to the tune of Rs 17.4 million to improve local infrastructure and enhance pedestrian safety in that region. The Minister of National Infrastructure, Mr Govindranath Gunness, visited the site yesterday, in Roche Bois, to assess the works undertaken by the Road Development Authority.
He was accompanied by the Minister of Housing and Lands, Mr Shakeel Ahmed Yousuf Abdul Razack Mohamed; the Minister of Industry, SMEs and Cooperatives, Mr Sayed Muhammad Aadil Ameer Meea; Member of Parliament, Mr Mohamed Ehsan Juman, and other officials.
In a statement, Minister Gunness recalled that the decision for the upgrading follows an incident on 24 February 2024, when an oversized vehicle carrying a concrete pump collided with the footbridge’s concrete deck, causing it to collapse and inflicting structural damage to the remaining section.
In a bid to prevent such incidents, the height of the Roche Bois Footbridge is being raised from 5.3 meters to approximately 5.8 meters for enhanced safety, said the Minister. The upgraded structure will also include a metal shelter with translucent sheeting on the facades for weather protection. Additionally, solar-powered lighting will be installed to ensure continuous visibility and pedestrian safety.
The Minister affirmed that the new footbridge will provide a modern and convenient
crossing for pedestrians, offering protection from both rain and sun. The project is expected to be completed within eight months and is set to be fully operational by mid- October 2025.
Minister Gunness also expressed gratitude to the residents of Roche Bois for their patience and understanding, acknowledging their long wait for this essential infrastructure. Government remains committed to maintaining and upgrading key infrastructure to safeguard public safety and ensure sustainable urban development, he pointed out.
About the project
Originally constructed in the early 1980s, the footbridge comprised two platforms
measuring 12.5 meters long and 2.8 meters wide. Initially designed with staircases, they were replaced by concrete ramps in 2012 to enhance accessibility. The recent accident necessitated urgent remedial action to restore and improve the structure.
The project, awarded to General Construction Co Ltd, involves a structural assessment
of the existing piers and ramps, the construction and installation of precast beams, and repair works to column heads and ramps.
