A new set of trial traffic diversions implemented at the busy Marathahalli Bridge has thrown daily commutes into disarray, particularly for two-wheeler riders and local residents. The changes, which came into effect recently, are forcing people to navigate significantly longer and more inconvenient detours.
What Are The New Traffic Rules?
The core of the new trial plan involves a major restriction at the Doddanekundi Junction. Vehicles approaching from the Marathahalli side are now completely prohibited from taking the customary U-turn at this junction. This U-turn was a critical maneuver for many commuters heading towards adjacent areas and inner roads, allowing for a quick change of direction without adding substantial distance to their journey.
With this option now closed off, affected vehicles are being redirected onto alternative routes. These prescribed detours are reportedly adding considerable extra travel time and distance to what were previously straightforward trips. The trial was announced and put into practice as of 24 December 2025, as authorities assess the flow of traffic under these new conditions.
Commuters Bear The Brunt Of Longer Routes
The immediate impact has been felt most acutely by motorcycle and scooter riders, for whom shorter routes are often a matter of daily necessity. Auto-rickshaw drivers and local residents who rely on quick access through this corridor are also struggling. The longer detours are not just an inconvenience; they translate to increased fuel costs, more time spent in traffic, and overall frustration during peak hours in one of Bengaluru's perpetually congested zones.
While the intent behind the trial is likely to streamline overall traffic movement and perhaps ease congestion at the junction itself, the initial phase has shifted the burden onto a specific group of road users. The lack of a suitable, equally convenient alternative for those making the now-banned U-turn is the primary cause of the widespread struggle.
Looking Ahead: Trial Period and Adjustments
As a "trial" diversion, these changes are presumably under observation by the city's traffic authorities. The feedback from commuters during this period will be crucial in determining whether the diversions become permanent, are modified, or are scrapped altogether. The key metrics will involve checking if the overall traffic flow on the main road has improved enough to justify the hardship imposed on those taking the detours.
For now, commuters from Marathahalli heading towards destinations accessible via the Doddanekundi U-turn must factor in extra time for their journeys. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges of managing traffic in a rapidly growing metropolis like Bengaluru, where every change in flow has a ripple effect. The success of this trial will depend on a balance between systemic efficiency and the practical needs of daily commuters.
