Bengaluru: Bengaluru is set to demolish the existing flyover at IOC Junction to make way for a new elevated rotary structure, a move expected to significantly impact traffic across East Bengaluru.
The project, estimated to cost ₹436 crore, will be executed by Bengaluru Smart Infrastructure Limited as part of the city's ongoing infrastructure overhaul.
The current flyover, constructed by the railways in 2001-02, has been deemed inadequate to handle the growing traffic volume in the area. Officials said the new design aims to address long-standing congestion issues and improve connectivity to key transport hubs.
The demolition and subsequent construction phases are likely to cause considerable disruption for daily commuters. Key arterial roads such as Dodda Banaswadi Road, Byappanahalli Road, and Kammanahalli Main Road are expected to face diversions, congestion, and longer travel times.
Authorities have acknowledged the potential inconvenience and stated that a comprehensive traffic management plan will be implemented in coordination with local agencies. This plan is expected to include route diversions, traffic marshals, and updated signage to guide motorists during the construction period.
The disruption follows a similar recent development in the city, where the Jayadeva flyover was demolished to facilitate a metro interchange, signalling a broader push towards modernising Bengaluru's infrastructure.
Urban planners and officials have pointed out that the IOC Junction flyover no longer meets current traffic demands. Over the years, the rapid expansion of residential and commercial zones in East Bengaluru has led to increased vehicular pressure on the existing structure.
The upcoming elevated rotary flyover is designed to handle higher traffic volumes while ensuring smoother movement across intersecting roads. By replacing the outdated infrastructure, authorities aim to create a more efficient and future-ready transport network.
One of the key objectives of the new project is to enhance access to the Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal, which has faced connectivity challenges since its inauguration in 2022.
The revised project plan includes a 1.5 km extension that will help segregate local traffic from long-distance commuters. Officials believe this addition will significantly reduce congestion near the terminal and streamline traffic flow in the surrounding areas.
Initially estimated at ₹263 crore in 2023, the project cost has escalated to ₹436 crore due to design modifications and the inclusion of additional infrastructure components.
The project has received a no-objection certificate (NOC) from Karnataka Rail Infrastructure Development Company, which oversees the suburban rail network in the region.
However, officials have highlighted that the presence of multiple active railway lines near the junction poses logistical challenges. Construction work will require careful coordination to avoid disruption to railway operations.
Work orders for the project are expected to be issued shortly, with construction likely to begin soon after.
While the demolition of the IOC Junction flyover is expected to cause short-term inconvenience for commuters, authorities maintain that the long-term benefits will outweigh the disruptions. The new elevated rotary flyover is aimed at easing congestion, improving connectivity, and supporting Bengaluru's growing infrastructure needs. For now, residents in East Bengaluru will have to brace for traffic challenges as the city undergoes another major transformation.