MUMBAI, July 20 -- Even as Mumbai's metro network expands rapidly, seamless last-mile connectivity through dedicated foot overbridges (FOBs) linking stations to offices, malls and residential complexes continues to lag behind. While MMRDA has introduced a policy encouraging private developers to build direct pedestrian links to metro stations, only two or three such projects have received approval so far, highlighting the slow pace of implementation. In the latest development, MMRDA has granted an NOC for a direct FOB connecting the upcoming Metro 4 station at Vikhroli with the Godrej commercial campus. The bridge will allow employees and visitors to access the metro station directly without crossing the busy LBS Road, which is expected to improve pedestrian safety. At present, there are a couple of FOBs such as Devipada metro station, which links Oberoi Skycity mall and commercial buildings near Aarey station to Metro Line 7. Officials said that MMRDA was banking on such projects to strengthen last-mile connectivity, improve commuter convenience and encourage higher metro ridership. However, despite the policy being in place, approvals have remained limited. "Under the framework, commercial and residential developments seeking direct access to metro stations must pay a one-time, non-refundable development fee, bear the entire cost of designing and constructing the bridge, and pay an additional 6% of the project cost towards MMRDA's supervision charges. For the Vikhroli project, Godrej & Boyce has paid a one-time development fee of Rs 10 crore and will fund the entire construction cost of the FOB," said an official from MMRDA. Every proposal undergoes structural, technical and safety scrutiny before permission is granted. The MMRDA officials said that similar proposals were under examination, with the longest one planned between Line 2B and the Bharat Diamond Bourse at BKC. "This is expected to benefit nearly 40,000 commuters daily by reducing pedestrian movement on surrounding roads," said another official. Urban transport experts have repeatedly pointed out that poor last-mile connectivity remains one of the biggest reasons commuters continue to rely on private vehicles despite the expansion of metro services. Safe pedestrian access from stations to offices, commercial hubs and residential neighbourhoods is considered essential for increasing public transport usage. MMRDA claims that the model also strengthens non-fare revenue while shifting the construction cost to the beneficiary institutions instead of the public exchequer. Dr Sanjay Mukherjee, metropolitan commissioner, MMRDA said, "Last-mile connectivity is one of the most important factors influencing public transport usage. Through this initiative, we are creating seamless integration between metro stations and major commercial and residential destinations while ensuring that the cost of such connectivity is borne by the beneficiary institutions."...