Vijayawada: The state govt is planning to construct one more flyover in the Ajit Singh Nagar area of Vijayawada city to address the growing traffic congestion caused by the region’s rapid urban development, said Vijayawada Central MLA and government whip Bonda Uma Maheswara Rao.
He added that the construction works are expected to commence within six months once all approvals are secured.
Thanks to rapid rise in population, Ajit Singh Nagar, Payakapuram, Prakash Nagar, and Kandrika areas witnessed significant growth in the recent years. The existing flyover, constructed in 1996 by the then TDP govt, connects Ramakrishnapuram to Ajit Singh Nagar and it was a major development then, allowing commuters to bypass hours-long traffic near the railway crossings. However, with the passage of time, the flyover has become outdated and has been causing frequent traffic jams.
In 2018, residents demanded a second flyover adjacent to the existing one to alleviate traffic woes, but the proposal was ignored.
Now, the govt has decided to address the long-pending demand of the people. MLA Bonda Uma confirmed that designs are being fast-tracked and proposals have already been submitted to the railway department, seeking permissions. Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath (Chinni) is coordinating closely with railway officials to expedite the process.
Meanwhile, the govt is also focusing on constructing a rail overbridge (ROB) or underbridge (RUB) connecting Devinagar to VAMBAY Colony near the Madhura Nagar flyover.
This is aimed at ensuring safety of the hundreds of people who currently risk crossing railway tracks daily via an unauthorised route.
“The Devinagar route is essential for commuters between BRTN Road and Ajit Singh Nagar. A proper overbridge or underbridge is urgently needed,” said K Rambabu, a local resident.
MP Chinni added that the proposal for the ROB will be pursued for approval in the next railway budget. He added that the new flyovers and ROBs in the city will be designed considering population growth over the next 40 years.
