In a significant urban infrastructure development, the proposed six-lane underpass of the Paradise Circle-Suchitra Junction skyway project is set to undergo a substantial route adjustment, now incorporating the Begumpet Airport within its alignment.
Originally planned to traverse through Tadbund Junction as per the state government’s blueprint, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) revised its plans after receiving clearance from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to utilise defence land for the project. The revised blueprint, now in possession of TOI, elucidates the rationale behind the alteration, citing congestion issues and a sharp curve at the initial proposed junction. Identified as a major bottleneck causing severe traffic jams, the Tadbund Junction was deemed unsuitable for the underpass, prompting HMDA to realign its plans.
Ensuring minimal impact on existing properties, HMDA’s revamped blueprint charts a new course for the underpass, directing it through the Begumpet Airport vicinity. The proposed route stretches from the Jagjivan Ram Statue up to a graveyard near the Bowenpally junction, with meticulous consideration given to the airport’s runway to mitigate potential disruptions. HMDA has initiated communication with Begumpet Airport authorities to apprise them of the realignment plans. In a related development, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is anticipated to postpone its annual toll fee hike, offering relief to commuters amid impending elections. Toll operators await formal communication from NHAI, as the National Highways Builders Federation (NHBF) seeks official notification to this effect. Without written confirmation from NHAI, concessionaires face potential losses due to deferred toll fee revisions. Meanwhile, in the aviation sector, concerns arise over the increased distance travellers must traverse within airports, impacting wheelchair assistance services. Regulators are urged to address misuse of wheelchair assistance, underscored by recent incidents such as a passenger’s demise due to inadequate support on Air India flights. With IndiGo reporting a substantial volume of wheelchair passengers, the need for enhanced infrastructure and services for elderly travellers becomes paramount.
Furthermore, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation’s (DGCA) proposed revisions to pilots’ duty and rest time regulations are put on hold, pending approval of a new fatigue management scheme. Airlines adhere to existing regulations until the revised scheme receives authorisation, with implications on night landings, quarterly reporting, and compliance deadlines under review following recent incidents prompting a re-evaluation of Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms.
