How will Bengaluru traffic be affected by partial closure of Silk Board flyover?

The recent announcement by the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) regarding the partial closure of one side of the Silk Board Junction flyover is set to exacerbate the notorious traffic congestion in Bengaluru. This decision stems from the ongoing Namma Metro construction efforts.

The specific closure pertains to the up and down ramp carriageway on the Madiwala side of the Central Silk Board Junction flyover. This move is considered indispensable for advancing essential metro infrastructure connecting the Silk Board Flyover to the Kempegowda International Airport.

Bengaluru: Why is Central Silk Board flyover being closed for four months?

The Silk Board Junction is notorious for its heavy traffic congestion, and the partial closure of the flyover is expected to exacerbate these issues. Commuters often experience long delays in this area. While the necessity of this step is evident for infrastructure development, the BMRCL acknowledges the inconveniences it may impose on the public. The corporation seeks the cooperation and understanding of commuters during the duration of these essential construction activities.

In response to the ongoing traffic challenges in the city, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar recently unveiled a proposal for a 190 km long tunnel. Within the next 45 days, the state government plans to initiate the invitation of public tenders for this significant project. The tunnel's specifications, including the number of lanes, starting and ending points, and potential citywide extensions, will be thoroughly studied and reported by designated companies.

Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar also stressed the urgency of addressing the prevalent issue of potholes, especially in critical areas of the city. While he acknowledged that potholes are a common issue during the monsoon season, he assured a prompt resolution in these vital city sections with the collaboration of traffic police.

Bengaluru metro clocks 7 lakh passengers in one day post Purple Line expansion

Bus stop relocation: One notable change involves the relocation of the bus stop at Silk Board Junction. The bus stop, previously situated in close proximity to the junction, has been moved 250 feet away from the main intersection. This relocation aims to streamline traffic flow and enhance commuter safety in the area.

Controlled access road approval: The government has granted approval for the construction of a 16-kilometre controlled access road. This decision represents a critical step in improving traffic management and connectivity within the city. The controlled access road is expected to alleviate congestion and enhance overall transportation efficiency.

Metro Line extension authorization: Another significant development pertains to the authorization of a Metro line extension originating from Silk Board Junction. This expansion of the Metro network promises to enhance public transportation.

Namma Metro offers special ticketing prices ahead of World Cup matches in Bengaluru

The BMRCL is ambitiously focused on expanding the Bengaluru metro network, with a goal of covering 175 km by 2025. This year, an expected 19 km stretch from RV Road to Bommasandra on the new yellow line, as well as a 4 km extension on the green line to Iserghatta-Madavara, will contribute to this expansion.

Bengaluru's existing metro system is currently the second-longest in the country, covering a distance of 73 km. Delhi Metro holds the top spot with a network spanning 390 km. The recent full operation of the purple line, spanning 43 km from Challaghatta to Whitefield, has significantly boosted daily ridership, reaching 7 lakh passengers.

• Karnataka
• Bengaluru
• Silk Board
• Flyover
• Traffic