NHAI plans elevated road to address risk concerns on Katraj Bypass

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced plans to construct a 5.2 kilometer elevated road section from near Swaminarayan Temple to Warje, aiming to rectify the dangerous slope issues along the Katraj-Dehu Road bypass. The bypass, in existence for nearly three decades, has gained notoriety as a killer road due to recurring accidents, particularly on the Katraj-Navale Bridge tunnel stretch. The NHAI's decision addresses concerns raised by urban planning and road infrastructure experts, who advocate for a new bypass with improved service roads or an elevated bridge as viable solutions. Bharat Todkari, the consulting engineer of NHAI?s Pune division, revealed that a comprehensive report for the Rs 42 billion projects has been prepared. The project encompasses various aspects, including the construction of the elevated road extending to the Warje flyover. This initiative aims to resolve the slope-related challenges faced by motorists. The detailed project report (DPR) is currently undergoing scrutiny and modifications. Upon approval from relevant departments and the ministry, funds will be allocated for the project. Subsequently, tenders will be issued, and work orders will be awarded. The construction is anticipated to take a minimum of three years to complete once initiated. Once the elevated road is operational, heavy vehicles will be directed to use it, eliminating concerns about slopes. The existing road will be repurposed for other vehicles, such as cars and two-wheelers, while local residents will continue to utilize it. Efforts have also been made to enhance safety measures on the existing road, particularly from the Katraj tunnel exit to the Bengaluru-bound side till the Navale Bridge, where accidents have been prevalent.