Siliguri, 8 July 2025 – The long-delayed Burdwan Road flyover in Siliguri is expected to be opened by August, just in time for the Durga Puja rush, according to the Siliguri Municipal Corporation (SMC).

Mayor Gautam Deb confirmed the update after a meeting with Public Works Department (PWD) officials at the SMC headquarters on Saturday.

“The PWD has assured that the flyover will be operational by August, offering significant relief from traffic congestion, particularly during the festive period,” said Mayor Deb.

In parallel, the department has also agreed to commence widening of Nivedita Road, which connects Gurung Busty and Pradhan Nagar — a key corridor that runs parallel to Hill Cart Road.

To facilitate road widening, SMC has already cleared over 100 roadside structures, including shanties and temporary shops.

The civic body plans to extend the road towards Gulma via Champasari, with major work likely to begin after Puja seaso

The 1.1-kilometre-long flyover project was launched in 2018 but faced multiple delays, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Original cost: Rs 44.85 crore (approx. £4.2 million)

Revised cost: Rs 68.75 crore (approx. £6.4 million)

Despite delays, the flyover remains one of the most vital infrastructure upgrades in Siliguri, intended to decongest urban traffic and improve travel across the city.

An SMC official noted:

“These projects are crucial to addressing Siliguri’s chronic traffic problems. Both the flyover and Nivedita Road widening are being prioritised for quick completion.”