Inauguration of Manjalpur-Khiskoli Overbridge in Vadodara After Prolonged Delays
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Synopsis
The Manjalpur-Khiskoli overbridge in Vadodara was inaugurated after a five-year delay, originally scheduled for completion in 18 months. The project, costing Rs 55.24 crore, is expected to benefit seven lakh residents by reducing traffic congestion and travel time.
Key Takeaways
- Inauguration of the Manjalpur-Khiskoli overbridge in Vadodara.
- Project duration extended from 18 months to 5 years.
- Cost of the bridge was Rs 55.24 crore.
- Approximately seven lakh people will benefit from reduced congestion.
- Fourth bridge connecting eastern and western Vadodara.
Vadodara, March 6 (NationPress) The railway overbridge linking Manjalpur Darbar Chokdi to Atladara Khiskoli Circle in Vadodara was officially opened on Thursday. Originally set for completion within 18 months, this project faced numerous delays, culminating in a frustrating five-year wait for the local community.
The construction of the bridge, which cost Rs 55.24 crore, is anticipated to benefit around seven lakh residents by alleviating traffic congestion and reducing travel duration.
Planned for a brief 18-month timeline, the overbridge's completion was hindered by various setbacks, ultimately extending to five years.
Reports suggest that challenges related to bureaucracy and logistics played significant roles in the delays.
Even after finishing construction, the opening ceremony was postponed as officials awaited a senior political figure for the formal inauguration.
With rising public dissatisfaction, the city Congress chief even threatened to conduct the inauguration himself, which prompted immediate action from local authorities.
At last, the bridge was inaugurated on Thursday, with Vadodara Mayor Pinkyben Soni, Standing Committee Chairman Shital Mistry, and other prominent figures in attendance.
This new structure marks Vadodara's fourth bridge linking the eastern and western segments of the city. Officials project that it will significantly enhance travel times and decrease fuel usage for approximately seven lakh individuals, offering essential relief from traffic bottlenecks.
The state boasts over 2,000 bridges, including flyovers, river crossings, and railway overbridges, strategically positioned throughout major urban centers and highways. Ahmedabad has the highest number of over 70 flyovers, followed by Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot. The ambitious Surat Diamond Bourse Flyover, among the longest in India, aims to enhance traffic flow in the diamond city.
Signature Bridge in Ahmedabad, which enriches the modern skyline. The government has earmarked over Rs 10,000 crore for infrastructure projects focusing on bridges and roads under the Gujarat Road Development Plan 2022-2027.
Additionally, significant river crossings such as the Golden Bridge in Bharuch, Sardar Bridge, and the newly planned Bhadbhut Barrage Bridge serve as vital links for inter-district connectivity. The construction of coastal bridges in Kutch and Saurashtra is further enhancing access to isolated regions. These infrastructural advancements are crucial for boosting trade, cutting travel times, and supporting Gujarat’s rapid urban growth.
