Bengaluru: Commuters travelling through Bengaluru's busy south-eastern corridor may soon get long-awaited relief, as the city's first double-decker flyover near Silk Board Junction is set to become fully operational within a week.
The major infrastructure project, aimed at easing chronic congestion in one of the city's most notorious traffic bottlenecks, is expected to significantly improve travel time and connectivity.
Following a detailed inspection conducted on April 2, authorities confirmed that key ramps connecting HSR Layout to BTM Layout and Ragigudda are ready for use.
These ramps run beneath the Metro's Yellow Line and are designed to streamline vehicular movement across multiple high-traffic routes. Officials indicated that once opened, the ramps will play a crucial role in reducing congestion along the stretch.
According to traffic police officials, the new flyover system could reduce congestion between HSR Layout Main Road and Jayadeva Hospital by up to 80%.
The Silk Board Junction has long been a major choke point for daily commuters, particularly during peak hours. The new infrastructure is expected to ease pressure on surface roads and improve traffic flow.
The project, which has been under construction for several years, encountered delays due to the installation of a 42-metre steel girder. However, the work has now been completed, and the structure is technically ready for use.
Despite this, the final inauguration is still pending. Authorities are coordinating with the office of Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar to finalise a date for the formal opening.
For thousands of daily commuters who use this corridor, the development comes as a major relief. Many have endured years of delays and heavy congestion in the area.
Some residents even joked about the nearly completed structure being used as a 'high-tech jogging track' due to the prolonged wait. With the opening now imminent, commuters are optimistic about saving up to 20 minutes during peak travel times.
To ensure safe usage, authorities have imposed a speed limit of 40 kmph on the ramps. Additionally, a weight restriction has been set, allowing only vehicles weighing up to 50 tonnes.
Officials emphasised that these measures are necessary to maintain structural integrity and ensure smooth traffic movement.
It may be recalled that certain stretches of the project, including ramps connecting Ragigudda to Hosur Road, BTM Layout, and HSR Layout, were partially opened in July 2024.
The upcoming full-scale opening will complete the project and make all sections accessible to the public.
The near-completion of Bengaluru's first double-decker flyover marks a significant milestone in the city's infrastructure development. Once fully operational, it is expected to transform commuting in the Silk Board corridor, offering much-needed relief from congestion and improving overall traffic efficiency.