Peenya flyover may open to heavy vehicles in 2-3 weeks

BENGALURU : It’s been months since heavy vehicles were banned on the Peenya flyover to install new cables. This is one of the most prominent flyover in the city, which connects Bengaluru to more than 15 districts. While light motor vehicles are allowed to use the flyover, the authorities concerned have not yet decided on movement of heavy vehicles even after testing the new cables, and even motorists are concerned about the delay and traffic congestion.

The Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru (IISc) is thinking of opening flyover for heavy vehicles in the third week of April. The installation of cables is partially complete and tests were also carried out. According to the experts at IISc, there is no problem with running heavy vehicles on the flyover, but the traffic police are awaiting the green signal from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

The vehicle’s movement was banned after faults were found in two pillars and new cables were laid between 20 pillars to strengthen the structure. As of now, the possibility of running heavy vehicles is in doubt, and it may be another two or three weeks. Apparently, the IISC is thinking of installing new cables for all the 120 pillars of the flyover.

Dr Chandra Kishan, Professor at IISc, said, “Cabling works are completed and load tests were conducted as well. As per our assessment, everything is fine and the flyover is ready to be opened for heavy vehicles. About 240 cables were laid, and the remaining cables will be completed in the coming days. The IISc submitted the report to the NHAI and the load testing has already been successful. The Bangalore Traffic Police Department has also requested the NHAI to allow heavy vehicles on the flyover. They are talking to NHAI regarding feasibility and will get permission”.