The long-awaited Western Ring Road in Coimbatore, also known as the Western Bypass, is approaching a significant milestone as its first phase nears completion. This crucial infrastructure project is poised to transform urban mobility in the region, with authorities targeting a public opening in February.
Project Overview and Current Status
Spanning 32.43 kilometers, the Western Ring Road is strategically designed to divert heavy vehicle traffic away from Coimbatore's congested city center. By bypassing high-traffic areas including Ukkadam, Gandhipuram, and Town Hall, the project aims to alleviate persistent traffic bottlenecks that have plagued the city for years.
The initial phase of construction, covering the stretch from Mylkal to Madukkarai, officially commenced on August 11, 2023, with an inauguration ceremony led by Minister E V Velu. According to officials from the state highways department, construction work between Mylkal and Madampatti has been successfully completed.
Infrastructure Details and Remaining Work
"Safety work is currently being carried out on this stretch and is expected to conclude within the next few days," revealed an official closely involved with the project. "Phase-I has seen the construction of approximately 13 small bridges over various waterways, along with completion of the grade separator bridge at Thondamuthur."
The official noted that while most components are ready, work on the grade separator flyover at Mylkal remains ongoing. "This particular element is projected to be finished by the end of February or early March," the official added, providing a realistic timeline for the project's final completion.
Expected Benefits for Commuters and Travelers
The Western Ring Road's first phase promises substantial time savings for both local commuters and long-distance travelers. Currently, journeys to popular destinations like the Isha Yoga Centre at Poondi, Karunya, and Kovai Kutralam typically require navigating through congested routes via Kovaipudur, Sundakkamuthur, or through Athupalam, Ukkadam, and Perur.
"These trips often consume more than 45 minutes under current traffic conditions," explained the highways official. "Once Phase-I becomes operational, commuters are expected to cover the 11-kilometer stretch in approximately 15 minutes, representing a dramatic reduction in travel time."
Local Perspectives on Traffic Challenges
R Rajasekar, a 33-year-old taxi driver familiar with Coimbatore's traffic patterns, emphasized the pressing need for this infrastructure improvement. "Tourist attractions such as Isha Yoga Centre, Kovai Kutralam, and other destinations along Siruvani Road consistently draw large crowds," he observed. "It takes nearly an hour to reach these places because city roads are perpetually busy and congested, with conditions worsening during weekends and festival periods."
Rajasekar expressed optimism about the project's potential impact: "This new road will significantly ease travel for numerous people, including regular commuters like myself who navigate these routes daily."
Future Phases and Land Acquisition Progress
Looking beyond the imminent opening of Phase-I, authorities have made substantial progress on subsequent phases of the Western Ring Road project. For Phase-II, which will extend 12.10 kilometers from Madampatti to Somayampalayam, approximately 99% of required land acquisition has been completed.
"About 134.7 acres of land are needed for the second phase, with an additional 90 acres required for the third phase," the official disclosed. "Construction work for the next phase will commence immediately once the land acquisition process concludes entirely."
The comprehensive Western Ring Road project represents a significant investment in Coimbatore's transportation infrastructure, promising not only reduced travel times but also improved traffic flow throughout the city. By providing an alternative route for vehicles that would otherwise contribute to urban congestion, the project aims to create a more efficient and sustainable transportation network for Coimbatore's growing population.
