With over 90 per cent of construction of the underpass at Madiwala completed, traffic jams at the junction are soon expected to be a thing of the past. The Madiwala underpass is just one of the eight underpasses that are coming up on Hosur Road, between Vellara Junction and Electronic City, which is set to become a signal-free corridor.
The Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) took up the construction of the underpasses to ease the traffic hurdles on that stretch.
According to BBMP sources, the underpass is an example of state-of-the-art civil engineering technology. For the first time in India, an underpass has been constructed using the soil nailing technology, which has helped the civic authority save not just money but also construction time.
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The sources added that pre-cast elements were used to construct the underpass. The concrete components were cast and partly cured on the site before being lifted into their final position.
BBMP Commissioner Siddaiah told The Hindu that the underpass will be thrown open to traffic this month-end, ahead of its three-month deadline.
“The engineers have been able to complete the work in record time. Even with rain and the strike by owners of earthmovers, the engineers have been able to achieve this feat,” he said.
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The sources said that the underpass will help decongest the junction, resulting in fewer accidents and mishaps. Residents of the area are only too happy.
Sheila Rao, a resident, said, “The underpass will pave the way for safe road crossings for all, especially the elderly, children and the differently-abled. My son had to cross this busy road every day, which made me worry about his safety.”
Rohit Reddy, a commuter, said, “The underpass will help me save precious time while going to work.” According to the shop owners nearby, the underpass will help lessen noise and air pollution levels.