Bombay Catholic Sabha Stages Silent Protest Over Sion Bridge Design, Demands Vehicular Access To School And Church

On Saturday, a silent protest took place in Mumbai by the Bombay Catholic Sabha, Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, and the Sion Church, voicing concerns over the newly opened Sion bridge's design. The protesters alleged that the bridge's elevated height has obstructed vehicular access to the school and church premises, causing inconvenience to students, parishioners, and local residents.

They expressed worry that emergency vehicles, like ambulances and fire engines, would be unable to reach the premises during emergencies due to the bridge's design.

The Bombay Catholic Sabha demanded the restoration of vehicular access to the school, which accommodates thousands of students, and the removal of the skywalk, as they claim it obstructs pedestrians and students. Additionally, they raised concerns about hawkers operating on the footpath outside the school and railway station, alleging that some vendors use LPG cylinders and kerosene stoves for cooking. These practices were deemed illegal and a potential fire hazard due to the proximity to the school and railway station.

The protest was led by Fr. Salvador D Souza, Principal of Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, Fr. Tony D Souza, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, and other local citizens and students. The Bombay Catholic Sabha organized the protest to press for corrective measures to address the issues arising from the new bridge infrastructure.