Nagpur: The recurring issue of heavy vehicles plying on the Sitabuldi flyover—despite repeated installations of height barriers—has once again drawn the attention of authorities. To permanently resolve the problem and safeguard the flyover’s structure, the Public Works Department (PWD) and the city traffic police have devised a new, technology-assisted plan.
According to officials, the PWD has readied new height barriers, while the traffic police have recommended adding luminous lights and sensors to enhance visibility and effectiveness. “The lights will make the instructions on the board visible at night. Many heavy vehicle drivers miss the signage and end up damaging the barrier. The new setup, with lights and sensors, will help prevent this,” explained Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Lohit Matani.
As part of the plan, speed breakers will also be constructed on both sides of the flyover—from Rahate Colony Squareand Freedom Park Square—to ensure that heavy vehicles slow down. “The illuminated signboards will alert drivers that entry is restricted, while sensors will trigger warnings if a heavy vehicle still proceeds. We are confident this method will effectively stop heavy vehicles from entering the flyover,” Matani added.
Krusha Gharde, Executive Engineer of PWD’s World Bank Division, confirmed readiness for installation. “We have the barriers ready. Once we receive clear instructions regarding the lights, sensors, and speed breakers, we’ll begin work. However, support from police is essential as construction during traffic flow is difficult,” he said.
Despite earlier enforcement drives and fines for violations, heavy vehicles—including buses, trucks, and JCBs—continue to use the flyover, threatening its lifespan. The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has also taken suo motu cognisance of the issue following reports of repeated violations and near accidents, including a recent incident involving a fuel-laden truck.
Authorities emphasize that further delays in installing the improved barriers could compromise the safety and durabilityof the flyover, which was originally designed to exclude heavy vehicles to prevent structural damage.
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