The Peenya flyover, a vital infrastructure link on Tumkur Road in Bengaluru, is undergoing significant enhancement as part of a comprehensive project aimed at strengthening its structural integrity. The project, spearheaded by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has made substantial progress, with 700 out of the planned 1,400 cables successfully replaced. This crucial work is currently being conducted near the Dasarahalli Metro Station, reflecting the urgency to ensure safety and efficiency on this important route.
Traffic restrictions were first imposed on the flyover back in December 2021, following a troubling discovery: several cables on pillars 102 and 103 at the 8th Mile junction had become bent, posing a potential risk to the structural stability of the flyover. The initial response allowed only light vehicles to traverse the flyover, while heavy goods vehicles and buses were prohibited after a thorough inspection by experts.
In a positive development, the flyover was reopened to all types of vehicles on 29 July 2023, after the replacement of 240 cables on 120 pillars. K.B. Jayakumar, the Project Director for NHAI in Bengaluru, expressed optimism regarding the ongoing work. “Now, the replacement of all 1,400 corroded cables is underway, and the work is expected to be completed by March 2025,” he stated.
To expedite the cable replacement process, the NHAI has mobilised four dedicated teams. This strategic move aims to facilitate quicker progress and meet the projected completion timeline. The flyover itself spans a total of 120 pillars and is situated adjacent to the Peenya Industrial Area, one of Asia’s largest industrial zones. This makes the flyover a critical conduit, connecting 21 districts across Karnataka and facilitating interstate travel.
The new cables being installed in the flyover are of superior quality, designed to withstand harsher conditions and ensure longevity. These state-of-the-art cables feature three protective layers and are the first of their kind in India, a testament to the NHAI’s commitment to utilising advanced technology in infrastructure development.
In addition to cable replacements, the NHAI has undertaken significant improvements to the flyover’s lighting system. Previously, maintenance work was hindered by inadequate lighting, as workers had to rely on torchlights. The recent upgrade to the lighting system has enabled a consistent electricity supply, enhancing visibility and allowing for quicker maintenance and repair operations.
The project also involves the scheduled cement-filling of the areas surrounding the newly installed cables. This operation takes place every Friday, from 6 a.m. to 6 a.m. the following day, during which heavy vehicle movement on the flyover is restricted. This temporary restriction is crucial for ensuring that the cement can set properly without disturbance, further enhancing the structural integrity of the flyover.
One of the significant issues faced by the Peenya flyover has been the overflow of rainwater, particularly noticeable near Jalahalli and Nagasandra. To mitigate this problem, the NHAI has initiated the installation of drainage pipes on the exterior of the flyover. This strategic addition will allow rainwater to drain efficiently without obstructing vehicular movement below, improving safety and traffic flow in the area.
The recent upgrades and cable replacements have had a positive impact on traffic flow. With the lifting of restrictions on all vehicle types, congestion at critical junctions such as Dasarahalli, Jalahalli, and Peenya has eased slightly. However, challenges remain, particularly with heavy goods vehicles that tend to park near the toll plaza during the day, contributing to localised traffic congestion.
In summary, the ongoing strengthening project of the Peenya flyover is not only vital for the safety and efficiency of Bengaluru’s transport infrastructure but also reflects a broader commitment to enhancing the quality of life for commuters in the region. As the project progresses towards its completion in March 2025, the NHAI’s efforts are expected to yield long-term benefits for the entire Karnataka region.