In a significant step forward for Bhopal's urban infrastructure, the construction of the Orange Line under the Metro Project's second phase has entered a crucial new stage. The focus is now on the segment connecting Nabibagh to Karond, where engineers have commenced load testing and the critical process of launching girders onto the already constructed piers.
Nighttime Launch Marks Progress
Work crews successfully placed the first girder late on Saturday night, marking a pivotal moment for the project. This operation followed the completion of the installation of a specialized launcher, a massive piece of equipment essential for positioning the heavy concrete beams that will form the metro corridor's elevated structure. The activity is concentrated along the 10 piers already built along this stretch.
Traffic Diversions for Public Safety
To ensure the safety of both workers and commuters during these complex operations, the Bhopal traffic police have implemented a nightly diversion plan. From 11 PM to 6 AM, traffic movement on Berasia Road between Karond Chowk and the Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering in Nabibagh will be restricted.
Authorities explained that the presence of heavy machinery and launching equipment on the road makes these diversions necessary to prevent any accidents. The plan carefully separates the flow of light and heavy vehicles to minimize disruption.
Routes for Light Vehicles
Cars, motorcycles, and other light vehicles traveling from Karond Chowk towards the Lambakheda Bypass will now be rerouted via an alternative path. This diversion begins in front of the Bhopal Memorial Hospital and Research Centre (BMHRC).
The designated route passes through:
- Rajvansh Colony
- Gokul Market
- Mittal Market
- St. George Higher Secondary School
- Green Sky Villa
- Mittal College Tiraaha
This route was specifically chosen to reduce congestion and ensure smoother movement for smaller vehicles during the construction window.
Routes for Heavy Vehicles
The entry of buses and heavy commercial vehicles into the active metro launching zone has been completely prohibited for the duration of the work. These larger vehicles are being directed to use alternative, wider roads considered safer for their size.
Heavy traffic will be diverted either through Choprakala to Bhanpur Road or via Acharpura Meena Chowk towards the Gandhinagar intersection. These roads offer the necessary width and capacity to handle large vehicles safely while keeping them away from the sensitive construction area.
The ongoing work on the Orange Line represents a key component of Bhopal's expanding metro network, aimed at improving connectivity and decongesting city roads. Residents are advised to plan their late-night and early-morning journeys accordingly and follow the signposted diversions.
