The long-awaited Singanallur flyover project in Coimbatore has taken a significant step forward, albeit after multiple revisions. The national highways wing has approved a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the 2.4-kilometer infrastructure, marking the sixth such revision since its inception. The project, now estimated at Rs 170.82 crore, is slated to be opened for bidding within the next two months, with officials aiming for completion within two years of tender finalization.
Escalating Costs and Design Changes
The journey of the Singanallur flyover has been marked by delays and rising costs. The initial estimate back in 2020 was a modest Rs 110.84 crore, and the project was first approved and opened for bidding in March 2022. The original design cleverly avoided the need for any land acquisition. However, officials identified a minor constructability issue over a 63-meter stretch, necessitating a redesign.
The latest revised DPR addresses this constraint. A National Highways official explained that the new design rectifies the earlier flaw but now requires the acquisition of approximately 1,202 square meters of land for service roads. A proposal for this land acquisition has been formally submitted to the Revenue Officer, and the process will commence upon approval. The cost for this acquisition will be finalized by the Land Acquisition officer and is expected to stay within the overall project estimate of Rs 170.82 crore.
Addressing Traffic Woes and Safety Concerns
This flyover is not just another infrastructure project; it is deemed critical for enhancing road safety and easing chronic congestion. Officials highlight its role in the permanent rectification of accident-prone spots at the Vasantha Mill Junction and the Uzhavar Santhai Junction. The Singanallur Road is infamous for severe traffic snarls during peak hours, and the flyover is expected to drastically improve traffic flow in this vital corridor of Coimbatore.
Consumer Advocacy and Calls for Caution
The repeated delays have not gone unnoticed by civic activists. K Kathirmathiyon, secretary of the Coimbatore Consumer Cause, pointed out that the project's progress was hampered by the overlapping Metro rail project. He emphasized that the years of undue delay have directly contributed to the significant cost escalation from the original estimate.
Kathirmathiyon also issued a cautionary note to the National Highways authorities. He urged them to ensure proper provisioning of service roads and to avoid design flaws similar to those encountered in the Periyanaickenpalayam area. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of including safe pedestrian crossings, either via a subway or a foot over bridge, as part of the final plan to ensure holistic safety for all road users.
With the revised DPR now approved by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), the focus shifts to the upcoming tender process. If all proceeds as planned, Coimbatore residents can hope for a significant relief from traffic congestion in approximately two years' time, finally bringing this crucial infrastructure project to fruition.
