PUNE, 5 NOV. The construction of the new Foot Over Bridge (FOB) at Chandni Chowk has been halted once again. Although the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) requested a 'Mega Block' to carry out the work, approval from the Traffic Department and Highway Police is still pending. Consequently, the work has been temporarily stopped.

Work Impossible Without Permission

The Chandni Chowk area faces immense traffic congestion. The flow of vehicles from the directions of Bavdhan, NDA, Pashan, Mulshi, and Paud continues day and night. To install the bridge girders, traffic will need to be stopped temporarily. NHAI had written to the police requesting a temporary restriction for a few hours. Since this approval has not been received, the FOB construction had to be stopped.

Work Progress Status

According to NHAI officials, approximately 30 to 40 per cent of the work has been completed. The next phase was supposed to involve installing the bridge girders, columns, and steel staircases. However, this work is currently on hold until the necessary permissions are granted. This bridge is essential for local residents to cross the highway safely, and pedestrians navigating the daily traffic at Chandni Chowk urgently need this facility.

Inconvenience to Citizens Continues

Citizens had hoped for some relief after the completion of the Chandni Chowk flyover. However, the stalling of the pedestrian bridge work is likely to increase confusion. Currently, pedestrians cross the road at great risk, a danger that increases significantly at night. Local residents have expressed dissatisfaction, stating, "Despite such heavy traffic on the highway, the lack of a safe provision for pedestrians is an administrative failure."

What’s Next?

NHAI has submitted a proposal to the police. Once the permission is granted, they plan to take a 'Mega Block' for a few hours during the night to install the girders. Officials stated that work will resume as soon as all necessary permissions are obtained. Upon completion, the bridge will significantly benefit pedestrians crossing the Pune-Mumbai highway and will also be useful for the Metro expansion project.

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