Motorists at Murugeshpalya Junction on Old Airport Road in Bengaluru face significant traffic disruptions for the next several months as construction kicks off on the long-awaited Wind Tunnel Road underpass. This project aims to alleviate congestion at one of East Bengaluru’s busiest bottlenecks, enabling signal-free travel toward HAL, Marathahalli, and the city center.
Project Launch After Decade-Long Delay
The Rs 19 crore underpass initiative, delayed for nearly ten years, officially starts this week. Authorities divert traffic to one side of the carriageway, allowing construction on the other. Traffic police report current conditions remain manageable but anticipate sharper congestion during peak hours, especially with schools reopening and monsoon rains intensifying.
VVIP Movements Add to Congestion Risks
The Old Airport Road corridor proves sensitive due to frequent VVIP visits linked to the nearby HAL Old Airport. Traffic halted for about 15 minutes on Thursday when the Chief Minister arrived. Officials warn that such stoppages, alongside reduced road space and construction, will exacerbate delays. Heavy rains and school traffic further strain the route.
180-Day Timeline Targets November Completion
Engineers set a 180-day schedule, spanning the monsoon, aiming for public access by November. During a site visit, GBA Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao directs contractors to accelerate work using advanced techniques and explores a potential three-month finish if feasible.
Phased Construction Minimizes Disruptions
Work divides into two phases. The first installs the underpass box toward Manipal Hospital while traffic flows on the opposite side. Phase two shifts to the HAL-bound side. This strategy ensures partial vehicle movement throughout.
Underpass Design Enhances Flow
The six-lane underpass spans 7.5 meters wide, with two service lanes on each side. Entry and exit ramps extend nearly 170 meters at both ends, and box sections measure 50 meters. These features boost local traffic and connectivity in East Bengaluru.
Key Challenges: Utilities and Excavation
Prefabricated boxes stand ready, and the ISRO-side retaining wall completes. Focus now shifts to the opposite retaining wall, underground utility relocations, and excavation. Officials expect rapid progress on box installation post these steps, ultimately easing one of Bengaluru’s worst junctions.
