Denizens can hope for a hassle-free drive near Indrakeeladri hill on their way to Bhavanipuram, if the Centre gives necessary clearances for the construction of a four-lane flyover from Kummaripalem to Sitammavari Paadaluas.
The State government had prepared a detailed project report on the possibility of an elevated corridor to ease traffic congestion. According to a Roads and Buildings (R&B) official, the project report was prepared on the basis of a feasibility study.
The official said two viable options had been proposed: constructing a bridge over the Krishna or a flyover on the existing road. “We are yet to finalise the option and send a report to the Central government for necessary action,” he added. According to him, permission has to be taken from the Irrigation Department, as the flyover passes through the Prakasam barrage.
“The idea is that the pillars should not affect the flow of river water. Once the government finalises the Rs. 300-crore project, we will discuss the issue with Irrigation authorities and fix the problem,” the official maintained. Furthermore, the State government has to convince the Centre of the necessity of taking up the project through the National Highways Authority of India.
The decision to construct the flyover was taken in view of the mounting traffic woes. The situation turns from bad to worse during festival season. Vehicles coming to Vijayawada from Hyderabad are held up at least an hour on the ghat road before entering the city. Residents of Vidyadharapuram, Bhavanipuram and One Town are facing hardship owing to frequent gridlocks on the narrow stretch between the hill and the river.
