In a significant development for Nagpur's infrastructure, the long-awaited redesign of the problematic Sadar flyover has taken a concrete step forward. MahaMetro has finalised one design option after extensive discussions with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari. This move comes approximately seven months after the flyover was officially flagged for a major overhaul.
From Three Options to One Final Design
The journey to this point involved a detailed technical evaluation. Earlier this year, after the flyover's issues drew Minister Gadkari's attention, MahaMetro appointed Astrum Techno Consultants Pvt. Ltd. as the Detailed Design Consultant (DDC). The consultant studied three alternative redesign options, carefully weighing factors like local topography, traffic movement patterns, and existing land constraints.
Following internal deliberations and technical evaluations with Gadkari, the authorities narrowed down the choices to a single, preferred option. Officials have confirmed that this selected design is now undergoing further refinements based on the minister's suggestions. The MahaMetro authority expects to spend the next month incorporating these specific changes before floating tenders for the project.
Key Focus: Heritage Protection and Traffic Flow
A primary concern guiding the redesign process is the protection of Nagpur's heritage. Officials have strongly emphasized that the focus remains on ensuring minimal to no land from Kasturchand Park, a protected heritage precinct, is used for the project. A senior MahaMetro official stated that while the broad alignment has been identified, the design is being fine-tuned to further reduce land requirements and improve traffic dispersal at the busy junction.
The ongoing refinement work includes adjusting critical parameters such as the approach geometry, curvature of the flyover, and the design of traffic merging points. Despite the model code of conduct being in force due to elections, the technical design work has continued uninterrupted. Officials project that by mid-January, the refined design will be ready for final approval.
Timeline for Execution and Project Background
Once the design receives the final green light, MahaMetro will swiftly move to the execution phase. Sources indicate that civil works on the ground could begin by February or March 2025, subject to procedural clearances and coordination with other agencies like the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
The Sadar flyover, originally commissioned in January 2020, has faced persistent public and official criticism since its opening. The main problems centred on its problematic eastern landing, which created severe traffic bottlenecks. The issue gained political traction this year, leading to the current corrective planning initiative. While the timeline has stretched since the project was taken up, officials assert that the objective is to implement a long-term, technically sound solution that eases congestion at one of the city's busiest junctions without compromising heritage land or traffic safety.
Minister Gadkari himself referred to the ongoing redesign process during a public event held on a recent Monday, signalling continued high-level attention on resolving Nagpur's traffic woes.
