Vadodara residents are set to experience significant relief from traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, as the construction of a railway overbridge (ROB) at the Alkapuri underpass is approved. The Alkapuri underpass, also known as the ‘garnala,’ is a crucial commuting route that connects the northern and western parts of the city.
However, the underpass has long been a hotspot for traffic snarls, particularly during the monsoon season when flooding often forces its closure. Commuters traveling from the Fatehgunj and Sayajigunj areas to the western regions of Vadodara frequently face significant delays as the underpass becomes clogged with traffic. This not only results in prolonged travel times but also affects the flow of emergency services, posing risks to public safety. The situation worsens during heavy rainfall, with the underpass often becoming impassable, leading to further disruptions in daily travel and productivity.
The new railway overbridge will be constructed over the busy Vadodara Railway Junction’s main line, directly addressing the congestion issues at the underpass. Following several representations by local MPs, including Vadodara Lok Sabha MP Hemang Joshi, the Railway Ministry has given its approval for the much-needed project. The overbridge is expected to alleviate the traffic bottlenecks, allowing smoother, uninterrupted travel for residents and reducing the impact on emergency services. With the construction of this ROB, the city is poised to experience improved traffic flow and better overall urban mobility.
