Nagpur is currently experiencing significant traffic disruptions due to the ongoing restoration work on the over 100-year-old Dhantoli Railway Bridge. The Great Nag Road, stretching from Dhantoli Police Station Square to Mokshadham Square, has been severely affected since Thursday. The restoration project, undertaken by the Nagpur Division of Central Railway, is expected to cause traffic congestion for the next month.
The Ghat Road bridge (835/1), a stone masonry arch structure featuring five spans of 9.14 metres each, is undergoing crucial repairs. The restoration work comes in response to detailed inspections and compliance reports that have highlighted urgent structural issues. Previous maintenance efforts have addressed incidents of spalling concrete and joint openings, but a comprehensive strengthening of the bridge is now required. Railway officials explained that the bridge is a vital link for both east-west and north-south rail traffic. The ongoing restoration focuses on two spans that serve as roadways, with the strengthening of the three spans over the Nag River already completed. The project has been authorised by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), with the permission valid from August 20, 2024, until September 30, 2024.
During this period, traffic will be restricted to Span 1, while Span 2 will be closed for repairs. Commuters have been advised to seek alternative routes to mitigate congestion. For travel towards Sitabuldi, users should opt for Mokshadham-Vijay Talkies Road via the connecting subway. Returning travellers can use the same route via Anand Talkies. Meanwhile, those heading to Dhantoli, Yashwant Stadium, and Panchsheel Square should anticipate delays due to increased two-way traffic, which is expected to cause additional strain on alternative routes. The Great Nag Road is a critical conduit for residents of South and East Nagpur, facilitating access to MSRTC and private bus services, as well as the Government Medical College & Hospital. With ongoing construction of flyovers near Ashok Square, Umred Road, Reshimbagh, and Jagnade Square, the traffic situation is already challenging, and this latest closure is likely to exacerbate delays.
The Central Railway Nagpur Division has appealed for public cooperation during this necessary bridge construction to ensure safety and minimise inconvenience. “We are committed to completing the work within the stipulated timeframe,” assured railway officials.
