The long-awaited reopening of Kamaraj Road, an essential thoroughfare connecting MG Road and Cubbon Road, has faced yet another setback, prolonging the inconvenience caused to commuters. Closed for over five years due to Bengaluru Metro construction, the road’s reopening, initially slated for April-end, has been postponed to the first half of June.
According to traffic police officials, the delay is attributed to pending installations of street lights and precautionary signs by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL). The necessity for these safety measures is paramount before the road can be safely accessible to the public.
The closure of the 220-meter stretch of Kamaraj Road in June 2019 was necessitated by construction activities related to the MG Road Underground station of the Pink Line. Despite previous extensions, the revised deadline for reopening has not been met, causing further frustration among commuters.
As a temporary measure upon reopening, Kamaraj Road will function as a one-way street, permitting vehicular movement solely from MG Road towards Cubbon Road. This decision aims to streamline traffic flow and alleviate congestion in the area.
Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) M N Anucheth highlighted the importance of ensuring public safety before reopening the road, highlighting the need for the removal of machinery, installation of precautionary signs, and provision of street lighting. These measures are essential prerequisites to mitigate potential risks to commuters.
While civil works have been completed, additional tasks mandated by the traffic police are pending and require coordination with other agencies. BMRCL officials affirmed their commitment to expediting these remaining works to facilitate the timely reopening of Kamaraj Road.
