Thousands of motorists use the national highway connecting Kempegowda International Airport every day. However, the absence or poor maintenance of street lights on many parts has become a cause for concern.
Pedestrians are also finding it difficult to navigate the stretch due to the lack of skywalks at many signal points starting from Kodiahalli Cross to Sadahalli Gate.
In the backdrop of these security threats, the Bangalore Traffic Police has recently worked out a solution with the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI).
“Poor visibility on many parts, especially near junctions, can result in accidents. We met with NHAI officials, who assured us that the problem would be rectified soon, ”said DCP Traffic (North) Sajeth VJ
He said that there is no skywalk between Kodiahalli Cross and Jakkur. “Instead, barricades have been placed between the service road and the main lane. As a result, pedestrians have to walk for one kilometer to cross the road. Some people jumped on the barricade to cross the road, putting their lives at risk. We have asked NHAI officials to construct a skywalk between Kodigehalli and GKVK stretch.
During the meeting, issues of road safety measures such as signboards, installation of medianica grills and fixing three black spots after the trumpet interchange were also discussed.
“From our side, the coordination needed to implement these functions will be enhanced,” the DCP said.
The signal-free corridor hits a snag
The signal-free corridor on the airport highway will take longer than anticipated. In October 2019, NHAI worked on a flyover near Sabdahalli Gate to remove the last remaining signal between Hebbal and Trumpet Interchange. However, the project has been scrapped following a design flaw.
An NHAI official said, “While implementing the project, we realized that there were some flaws in the design and it was not a possible option. Now we have revised the plan and sent it for approval. According to the new plan, an underpass will be constructed along the lines of one at Mehkari Circle. Vehicles on the main lane of the highway from Hebbal will go down from the existing Sadahalli junction and reach the toll plaza. “
Near junctions, the main streets have been closed and vehicles have been diverted to service routes to reach the toll plaza. To reduce congestion near the junction, the police have also asked NHAI to expedite the project.
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