Bengaluru's Airport Road to Become Signal-Free with New Underpass Construction
The National Highways Authority of India is taking a major step to smooth the journey to Kempegowda International Airport. They are building a 750-meter-long, six-lane underpass at Sadahalli junction on Ballari Road. This project aims to remove the last remaining traffic signal on the main road leading directly to the airport.
Traffic Diversions and Preparations
Once construction begins in February, traffic will face diversions near Sadahalli junction for approximately two years. NHAI officials state they have already written to traffic police seeking permission for these diversions. Before implementing them, the authority will widen the existing two-lane service roads on both sides of the main carriageway. This widening is crucial to manage the expected traffic load during the construction period.
Officials emphasize that the diversion is necessary because construction work will occur directly on the main carriageway. They have issued clear instructions to the contractor to start work and strictly adhere to the project deadline.
Reviving a Long-Delayed Project
This is not the first attempt to solve the traffic bottleneck at Sadahalli. About ten years ago, NHAI first proposed eliminating the signal here. Initial plans involved an overpass, which later changed to an underpass. After significant delays, NHAI decided to proceed with the underpass project in 2019 and even began work with traffic diversions. However, the project stalled due to identified flaws in the design.
Now, with fresh approval from NHAI headquarters, the project has been revived. A contract worth Rs 35 crore has been awarded, paving the way for construction to commence next month.
Addressing Local Concerns and Infrastructure Upgrades
Local residents from Sadahalli, Chowdenahalli, Channahalli, Gadenahalli, and surrounding villages have expressed concerns about their mobility during construction. In response, NHAI plans to install a concrete slab specifically to facilitate movement for these residents towards the city. The junction is important for motorists from several residential areas and villages traveling towards Devanahalli and Bengaluru city.
In a related infrastructure upgrade, NHAI is also constructing a 1km-long service road near the Yelahanka Air Force Station. This stretch between Hebbal and the Trumpet Interchange currently lacks service roads, unlike the rest of the highway. Officials estimate this separate project will cost around Rs 70 crore and will use the cut-and-cover construction method.
The Big Picture for KIA Road Traffic
Currently, the 22km stretch between Hebbal and Sadahalli junction has no traffic signals on the main carriageway. Airport-bound traffic uses elevated corridors and flyovers at multiple points. Sadahalli junction remains the sole traffic signal along the entire KIA Road.
An official highlighted that recently completed works, including widening service roads near the Hebbal flyover and asphalting near Jakkur Aerodrome, have already improved traffic flow. Once the underpass at Sadahalli and the new service road at Yelahanka are finished, traffic on KIA Road is expected to flow smoothly without any interruptions, providing a seamless commute to the international airport.
