Nagpur’s Shahid Gowari Flyover, is facing a serious threat due to the unchecked movement of heavy vehicles despite an official ban. Originally designed to handle only light and medium traffic, the flyover is now frequently used by trucks, containers, and freight carriers—raising alarming concerns over its structural stability.
Despite repeated warnings and mounting risks, authorities have failed to take corrective action. The issue, which was first highlighted during the September 2023 floods—when the flyover became the only accessible route for heavy vehicles traveling from Wardha Road to Katol, Saoner, Amravati, and Kamptee—continues to persist. Although the outer ring road is now operational, several truck drivers still choose the flyover to evade toll charges, worsening the situation.
Lack of height barriers, absence of traffic personnel, and zero enforcement at both ends of the flyover have turned it into a preferred shortcut for overloaded vehicles.
According to social activist Dr Pravin Dabli, engineering assessments confirm that the flyover cannot withstand the weight of heavy vehicles. “It was never constructed for such loads. Yet, violations happen round the clock, and no authority is stepping in,” he said in a statement.
Earlier, barricades and traffic police were deployed to restrict access, but those measures were dismantled after a collision with a heavy truck years ago. Since then, no replacement or monitoring systems have been installed, leaving the flyover vulnerable.
Dr Dabli, who has raised the issue on multiple platforms, accused the administration of gross negligence. “We are ignoring the lessons of the Butibori flyover collapse, which also happened due to overloading. Are we waiting for another tragedy before taking action?” he questioned.
Citizens are now demanding immediate reinstatement of the heavy vehicle ban, a comprehensive structural audit, regular patrolling by traffic police, and strict penalties for violators.
“The safety of thousands who use this flyover daily must not be compromised,” Dabli added. “The time to act is now—before it’s too late.”
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