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The Aishbagh railway overbridge in Bhopal, nearing completion after years of delays and Rs 18 crore investment, faces criticism for a “hazardous 90-degree turn”
The bridge spans 70 metres of railway track and is expected to drastically reduce traffic congestion in the Aishbagh and surrounding areas
A major infrastructure project meant to ease Bhopal’s traffic woes is now caught in a swirl of controversy, before even seeing its first vehicle cross. The Aishbagh railway overbridge, nearing completion after years of delays and a hefty investment of Rs 18 crore, was supposed to be a symbol of progress for the city. But instead, it has become the centre of a technical dispute, with citizens and traffic experts raising red flags over what they’re calling a “90-degree blunder”.
The overbridge, 648 metres long and 8 metres wide, includes a sharp 90-degree turn that has alarmed residents and traffic analysts alike. Critics argue that such a design defies basic traffic safety principles. “It’ll be a disaster,” said one local commuter, echoing a growing concern that the abrupt turn could lead to frequent vehicle collisions, particularly at night or during poor weather conditions.
Experts point out that such angles are not just unconventional but potentially hazardous, especially on a structure meant to streamline traffic across one of the city’s busiest corridors. “At high speeds, the turn becomes treacherous. Even at moderate speeds, heavy vehicles might tip or struggle to navigate the curve safely,” said a retired civil engineer who reviewed the bridge’s layout.
The bridge’s layout has prompted the public to question whether the project prioritised political deadlines over structural integrity. “We have waited years for this bridge, but not at the cost of safety,” said a local shopkeeper whose business faces the overpass. He further questioned what was the hurry to inaugurate something that could endanger lives.
Amid mounting questions, Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Rakesh Singh stepped in with a befitting reply. “After any bridge is built, some so-called experts always appear and start giving opinions,” Singh said, adding, “But the truth is, every bridge goes through multiple technical checks. If someone has a serious objection, a technical probe will be done.”
His remark, seen by many as dismissive, has done little to calm public concerns. Residents are now demanding a full technical audit of the overbridge before it is inaugurated. Some fear that, without it, the government may be putting symbolism and ribbon-cutting ceremonies ahead of engineering accountability.
The bridge spans 70 metres of railway track and is expected to drastically reduce traffic congestion in the Aishbagh and surrounding areas. But with these latest revelations, its promise of convenience now comes with an asterisk.
- Location :
Bhopal, India, India
- First Published:
