In pics: Bengaluru's first double-decker flyover partially opens to ease traffic at CSB junction

BENGALURU: The Central Silk Board (CSB) junction, notorious for its traffic jams, may look forward to courting less infamy as Bengaluru’s first double-decker flyover was partially opened to motorists Wednesday evening.
BMRCL, which has allowed motorists to use the lower deck of the road-cum-Metro flyover from Ragigudda to CSB on a trial basis, said traffic congestion will be reduced by 30% at CSB with the flyover’s opening.
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Traffic police also said the flyover would help motorists avoid the traffic signal at CSB and save them 15-20 minutes. The road flyover and newly built ramps that were opened span 5.1km.
The partial opening will help those heading towards KR Pura and Electronics City from Ragigudda, BTM Layout, and traffic coming from Bannerghatta Road. However, the opening of the flyover from CSB to Ragigudda will take more time as ramps at CSB from HSR Layout to BTM Layout aren’t yet ready. BMRCL maintains construction of the 1.3-km ramps will be completed by June 2025. The whole project costs Rs 450 crore.
A traffic cop said: “The flyover has been opened to all types of vehicle barring heavy ones transporting construction materials and others... on a trial basis, vehicles are allowed on the flyover. We’ll assess the impact it makes on flow of traffic at Silk Board junction and traffic moving at grade from BTM Layout side. We’ll also see whether there is a need to restrict movement of traffic on the flyover at night.”
Another traffic cop said with the opening of ramps at Silk Board, traffic congestion is likely to shift to the HSR Layout side. Signboards displayed at flyovers ask vehicle users to not cross the speed limit of 40kmph.
‘Inauguration later’
Before taking a ride on the new road, deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar told reporters the official inauguration of the flyover will happen at a later stage. He also said the feasibility of building a double-decker will be studied in other parts of the city where new Metro lines are proposed. BMRCL missed multiple deadlines in the past to open the flyover. The authorities came under pressure to open it up for public use without waiting for a VIP launch.
(With inputs from Hiya Paul)