NAGPUR: In a groundbreaking moment for infrastructure, Union minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated Asia's longest double-decker flyover on Saturday, which also features the continent's first four-tier structure. The engineering marvel near Gaddigodam Gurudwara on National Highway, integrates four different levels of transit, with a Metro line at the top, followed by a flyover, a railway track beneath it, and finally, a road at the base at a single location.
The 5.6km double-decker Kamptee Road flyover from LIC Square to Automotive Square, constructed by MahaMetro and National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) at a cost of Rs573 crore, now surpasses the earlier record held by Nagpur's 3.14km Wardha Road flyover. Both projects set benchmarks for double-decker flyover construction, but this latest achievement breaks new ground with its innovative four-tier configuration.
Initiated in 2019, the project faced multiple challenges, including acquisition of private properties in the bustling Sadar area. Despite these obstacles, the flyover was completed, marking a significant milestone in urban transportation.
Speaking at the inauguration, Gadkari highlighted the potential of adopting ultra-reinforced concrete technology, which is widely used in Singapore and Malaysia, for upcoming infrastructure projects. "I have proposed this technology to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has given me the responsibility of using it in Parliament's Vista as well as in future Metro projects, which could reduce construction costs by 20%," he said.
The flyover promises to drastically cut travel time, allowing motorists to cover 20km (Kamptee to Nagpur airport) in just 20 minutes. Gadkari also mentioned the demand from Sadar residents for a dedicated entry to the flyover, with MahaMetro already working on a design. Additionally, the road beneath the flyover leading to Kamptee is slated for concrete reconstruction, funded by the Central Road Fund (CRF).
Gadkari praised MahaMetro, NHAI, and local officials, including collector Vipin Itankar and municipal commissioner Abhijeet Chaudhari, for their efforts in completing this ambitious project. He emphasized that NHAI has invested between Rs1,300 crore and Rs1,400 crore in Nagpur's three major flyovers – Kamptee Road, Wardha Road, and Pardi.
The minister also lauded Nagpur Metro for setting a new benchmark in Metro construction, achieving costs of Rs350cr/kilometre, which is significantly lower than those in other Indian cities. Gadkari further announced plans for redeveloping Gaddigodam Market to facilitate smoother traffic flow in the area.
This flyover stands as a testament to modern engineering, blending innovation and functionality to address the growing needs of urban transit.
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