Contractor for Nagpur's ₹998-Crore Flyover Project Allegedly Puts Public Safety at Risk
Nagpur: The contractor responsible for the massive ₹998-crore Indora-Dighori flyover project, overseen by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has been accused of jeopardizing citizens' lives during crane dismantling operations on Monday. The incident occurred near the busy Pachpaoli railway crossing, where workers were seen lifting heavy counterweights without implementing essential safety measures.
Safety Protocols Ignored Amid Ongoing Pedestrian Traffic
Eyewitnesses reported that the crane was being dismantled in an open area adjacent to the railway crossing, with normal traffic and pedestrian movement continuing uninterrupted. Heavy counterweights were hoisted into the air using machinery, yet no barricading or safety cordon was established around the site. Alarmingly, citizens were observed walking directly beneath the suspended loads, exposing them to significant risk of a serious accident.
A video capturing the hazardous situation was shared by TOI with NHAI officials, prompting immediate action. Authorities contacted the contractor and issued strict instructions to enforce necessary safety precautions during the dismantling process. Officials acknowledged that such operations demand rigorous safety protocols, including proper barricading of areas under heavy lifting to prevent public access.
Dismantling Linked to Holi Festival Preparations
The dismantling activity was part of preparations ahead of the upcoming Holi festival. According to NHAI sources, contractors were directed to remove heavy construction machinery from project sites during the festival period to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.
"Because of Holi celebrations, all heavy machinery is being removed from construction sites. By evening, most of the machines were shifted and risky locations were being barricaded," stated an NHAI source. The official added that robust barricades will be installed at various entry points of the flyover for the next three days as an additional safety measure.
Project Overview and Current Status
The ₹998-crore Indora-Dighori road project encompasses two major flyovers:
- One connecting Kamal Chowk to Reshimbagh Square
- Another linking Bhande Plot to Dighori
This initiative aims to alleviate traffic congestion in east Nagpur and enhance connectivity between densely populated areas. During construction of the Kamal Chowk–Reshimbagh flyover, the old Pachpaoli flyover was demolished and reconstructed. However, work over two railway crossings in the area remains pending.
Officials note that most of the flyover structure is nearly complete, except for the railway over bridge (ROB) section near the Pachpaoli railway crossing. NHAI is targeting the opening of both flyovers by the end of April, though the timeline for the Kamal Chowk-Reshimbagh flyover hinges on completion of the ROB near Pachpaoli.
Ongoing Traffic Woes for Commuters
Meanwhile, commuters continue to endure severe traffic congestion at the two railway crossings in the area. Motorists frequently face delays of up to 30 minutes during peak periods. The situation exacerbates when traffic spillover extends to the Motibagh railway underpass, where another flyover project is under construction, further impeding vehicular movement.
