Pardi Flyover Now Fully Operational, NHAI Opens Two Arms on Trial Basis

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Aerial view of the newly operational Pardi flyover in Nagpur, showcasing its five-armed design and smooth traffic flow.

The long-awaited Pardi flyover in Nagpur is now fully functional, bringing much-needed relief to commuters. Nine years after construction began, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has finally opened all five arms of the flyover. The last two remaining arms, connecting Central Avenue and Manewada, were opened on a trial basis to assess traffic flow.

The Pardi Flyover Project: An Overview

The Pardi flyover was envisioned as a solution to Nagpur’s growing traffic congestion, especially in East Nagpur. Spanning 7 km, this multi-armed structure has been a significant infrastructure project aimed at streamlining vehicular movement.

A Multi-Armed Design for Maximum Efficiency

Nicknamed ‘Kekda’ (crab) by engineers due to its five-armed structure, the flyover is a crucial link connecting Itwari, Kalamna, Bhandara Road, Central Avenue, and Manewada.

A Timeline of Delays and Challenges

The project faced numerous obstacles, pushing its completion nearly a decade beyond the initial deadline.

2016: The Beginning

Construction officially commenced in 2016, with an initial budget of ₹450 crore.

2021: A Major Setback

In 2021, a portion of the flyover collapsed, causing further delays and increasing safety concerns. The incident led to an extensive review and redesign of certain structural elements.

2023: Partial Opening

In September 2023, three of the five arms were made operational, easing traffic on some routes while work continued on the remaining sections.

2024: Full Completion

The final two arms were opened in February 2024 on a trial basis, marking the complete functionality of the flyover.

How the Pardi Flyover Will Improve Traffic Flow

With all five arms operational, commuters can expect smoother travel across East Nagpur.

Reduced Congestion

The flyover eliminates multiple bottlenecks, significantly cutting down travel time during peak hours.

Improved Road Safety

By diverting high-speed traffic above ground, the flyover reduces the risk of accidents at intersections.

Better Connectivity

It establishes faster routes between key areas like Itwari, Kalamna, and Bhandara Road, enhancing accessibility for both daily commuters and commercial transport.

Financial Aspects: Cost Overruns and Budget Adjustments

Initially planned at ₹450 crore, the prolonged delays and redesigns pushed the project cost to ₹600 crore. Factors like rising material costs and labor expenses contributed to the budget escalation.

NHAI’s Trial Run: What It Means for Commuters

The final two arms have been opened temporarily to monitor traffic patterns. NHAI will assess congestion levels, traffic behavior, and safety before giving a final nod to permanent operations.

Public Reactions and Feedback

Commuters and local businesses have mixed reactions to the flyover’s completion:

Positive Reactions: Many praise the decongestion benefits, noting significant travel time reductions.
Concerns: Some motorists worry about potential bottlenecks at merging points, urging authorities to optimize lane management.

Future Infrastructure Plans in Nagpur

With the Pardi flyover operational, NHAI has its sights set on further improving Nagpur’s road network. Upcoming projects include additional flyovers and expressways aimed at making the city traffic-friendly.

The full operation of the Pardi flyover marks a milestone in Nagpur’s urban infrastructure development. Despite years of setbacks, the project’s completion brings significant benefits to commuters. With NHAI monitoring its impact, the flyover is expected to reshape traffic dynamics in the region for years to come.

1. Why was the Pardi flyover delayed for so long?

The project faced multiple challenges, including design changes, a bridge collapse in 2021, and rising construction costs, all of which contributed to delays.