The ordeal of crossing railway lines in Bengaluru, compounded by frequent closures of level crossings, is set to see relief with the South Western Railways (SWR) accelerated efforts to construct grade separators. These separators aim to eliminate level crossings and streamline traffic flow by redirecting vehicles over or under the railway tracks.
Officials have unveiled plans to complete the construction of grade separators at all 185 level crossings in the region by 2028, with an ambitious goal of upgrading 185 LCs within the next four years. Higlighting the prioritization of LC improvements based on traffic congestion, a senior railway official disclosed that LCs witnessing daily traffic volumes ranging from 50,000 to 1 lakh vehicles are being targeted for enhancement. Moreover, for junctions experiencing traffic counts exceeding 1 lakh, the state government and railways will share the cost of resolution on a 50:50 basis.
Pending projects for LCs across the city are gaining momentum, with various initiatives underway to address the issue. From funds allocated for LC 136 on Kaggadasapura Road to joint surveys for LC 150 in the Hebbal-Lottegollahalli section, efforts are being made to expedite the construction of grade separators and alleviate congestion woes. Despite challenges such as land acquisition hurdles and the relocation of utilities, officials remain committed to achieving their targets and enhancing the city’s transportation infrastructure.
The closure of LCs due to train passages, causing significant congestion in Bengaluru, underscores the urgency of grade separator construction. As vehicles await their turn to cross closed LCs, the resulting gridlock disrupts traffic flow and exacerbates travel delays.
