In a concerning development, the Shahid Gowari Flyover, located opposite Dhiran Kanya Vidyalaya in Sitabuldi, Nagpur, is currently facing a critical safety issue. A substantial portion of the parapet wall has developed extensive cracks, posing a grave danger to motorists below.
This alarming situation comes in the wake of previous structural damage suffered by the bridge during last year’s flash floods. Specifically, the section near Dhiran Kanya School on Wardha Road was affected. Despite past incidents, adequate safety precautions appear to be lacking, exacerbating the current predicament.
The hazardous condition of the flyover is concentrated over the road stretch from Panchsheel Square to Jhansi Rani Square, which recently reopened for traffic. Concerns loom large regarding the potential for a catastrophic accident if prompt action is not taken.
Authorities are urged to conduct a comprehensive inspection to evaluate the extent of the damage and determine necessary interventions. Immediate measures, such as cordoning off the area and installing warning signs, are imperative to avert potential disasters.
The safety of commuters is paramount, necessitating swift action to address the perilous situation at the Shahid Gowari Flyover. Urgent steps must be taken to assess the damage, implement safety protocols, and undertake essential repairs to safeguard all road users.
The bridge, executed by the National Highway (NH) division of the State Public Works Department (PWD), had experienced a collapse during the floods on September 23 last year. Subsequently, extensive reconstruction efforts ensued, resulting in multiple road closures and traffic diversions. Despite cost escalations and deadline extensions, Friday will witness the reopening of the other side of the road between Jhansi Rani Square and Panchsheel Square for traffic.