| Work Detail |
In a bold move poised to revolutionize urban transportation in the capital city, the Odisha Bridge Construction Corporation (OBCC) Limited has announced an ambitious project to decongest the heavily trafficked Jaydev Vihar-Nandankanan Road. The projects centerpiece is its innovative three-tier design: the ground level dedicated to public transport, an elevated corridor for mixed vehicular traffic, and the uppermost tier reserved for the citys proposed Metro rail network. Spanning a length of 13.2 kilometers, this groundbreaking project promises to transform one of Bhubaneswars most congested arteries into a modern and efficient transportation corridor. The vertical integration of different transport modes in a single structure represents a unique and forward-thinking approach to urban mobility challenges. OBCC has recently initiated the tendering process, inviting bids from reputable construction firms to undertake this landmark project. The comprehensive development plan includes 4.626 kilometers of slip roads and strategically positioned flyovers near key intersections such as XIMB Square and Kalinga Hospital Square. The design incorporates a four-lane elevated corridor while ensuring four to six lanes are maintained at the ground level, all within a 60-meter right of way stretching from Pal Heights to Baranga Square. The infrastructure upgrade is crucial for the growing transportation needs of the city, emphasized Priyansh Acharya, a resident of the Patia area who frequently commutes along this route. He believes that the multi-tiered approach will significantly improve traffic flow and provide citizens with modern and efficient transportation options. Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan officially confirmed the state governments approval for the ambitious project. Construction work of the elevated corridor from Jaydev Vihar to Nandankanan extending up to Barang Junction will commence soon. Technical work of the project has recently been completed, and the tendering process has begun, he stated. The project is strategically aligned with the broader Metro rail project, which envisions the development of 20 elevated stations along the same corridor, including a depot at Phulapokhari. This synergy aims to create a seamless and integrated public transportation network for the city. However, urban planning experts have raised pertinent concerns regarding inter-agency coordination. It is a mega project that involves multiple agencies. But so far, there are no signs of any collaboration between the agency proposing the flyover and the one proposing the Metro, noted urban planner Dipu Nanda, highlighting the need for effective collaboration to ensure the projects success. The three-tier corridor project directly addresses several existing challenges, including severe traffic congestion, a lack of lane discipline among drivers, and the inefficient mixing of different types of vehicular traffic. Upon completion, the corridor will be equipped with modern amenities such as advanced bridge lighting, clear road signage, and essential safety furniture, all installed in strict adherence to the guidelines set by the Indian Road Congress (IRC). This ambitious project signifies Odishas commitment to developing sustainable and efficient urban transportation solutions for its growing metropolis. |
