The newly inaugurated Mrinaltai Gore Flyover in Mumbai is facing backlash as its ultra-smooth surface is causing bikers to skid and fall. Experts point toward issues with mastic asphalt and bitumen bleeding.
- The ₹248-crore Mrinaltai Gore Flyover is causing accidents within 90 days of inauguration.
- Bikers are skidding on turns due to an unusually slick surface.
- Technical issues like 'mastic asphalt slickness' and 'bitumen bleeding' are suspected.
The Mrinaltai Gore Flyover extension, a massive ₹248-crore infrastructure project in Mumbai, was designed to ease commuting. However, less than three months after its inauguration on June 6, it has become a nightmare for two-wheeler riders. Instead of a smooth journey, bikers are reporting frequent skidding and falls, particularly on the turns leading toward Relief Road.
Viral videos on social media depict riders losing control as their vehicles lose grip on the dark, shiny surface. The problem becomes significantly more dangerous during wet weather, as the road surface appears almost glass-like, offering minimal friction for tires.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this is not just a routine case of road wear and tear. While older roads in Mumbai often suffer from 'polished aggregate' due to years of heavy traffic, this flyover is brand new. This suggests a fundamental issue with the surface material or its application.
The loss of surface texture on a road significantly reduces the available grip, turning a routine turn into a high-risk zone for motorcyclists.
Transport planner Vivek Pai explains that while the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) claims to have applied stone chippings over the 40-mm-thick mastic asphalt layer to ensure friction, the reality on the ground is different. The mastic surface is reportedly becoming excessively slick, potentially due to the material's inherent properties or improper layering.
The Technical Culprit: Bitumen Bleeding
Another critical factor in road slipperiness is a phenomenon known as 'bleeding.' This occurs when excess bitumen—the black, sticky binder used in asphalt—rises to the surface. This creates a dark, shiny, and incredibly slippery coating that masks the rough texture of the aggregate, making the road treacherous for vehicles with narrow tires like motorcycles.
| Feature | Old Mumbai Roads | Mrinaltai Gore Flyover |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Issue | Polished Aggregate (Wear & Tear) | Mastic Asphalt Slickness / Bleeding |
| Cause | Years of heavy traffic/weather | Material properties/Construction issues |
| Surface Appearance | Dark and worn | Shiny and glass-like |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is 'bitumen bleeding'?
It is when excess binder rises to the surface of the road, creating a slippery, shiny layer.
2. Is the flyover safe for cars?
While cars with wider tires have better grip, the slickness remains a concern for all vehicle types, especially during monsoon seasons.
