Karnataka: The Silk Board junction in Bengaluru has long remained infamous for its traffic jams, which have inspired countless memes and jokes. However, the newly constructed double-decker flyover along the Namma Metro lines, stretching 5.12 km from Ragigudda metro station to Central Silk Board junction, was expected to ease the jams. While the flyover has eased some traffic on the Silk Board section, multiple diversions implemented to streamline access to it have increased traffic in the vicinity.
The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) constructed the double-decker flyover at a cost of ₹449 crore with the aim of clearing the traffic congestion at Central Silk Board. The flyover was designed to provide a faster route for commuters headed towards K.R. Puram and Hosur Road, reducing travel time by over 30%. However, a recent report by The Hindu revealed that only vehicles coming from Ragigudda were using the flyover, while vehicles coming from BTM Layout, J.P. Nagar and Bannerghatta Road were jamming the roads below the flyover.
Congestion persisted near BTM Layout and Central Silk Board and a recent visit reveals that residents near the flyover ramps are facing an unexpected surge in traffic due to diversions implemented by the Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP). These diversions, including blocking right turns at junctions near the flyover entry points, have forced commuters to take longer routes and avoid additional hurdles.
For instance, commuters coming from Jayanagar 4th Block or Shalini Ground will now have to go to Sarakki Market instead of turning right at the Raghavendra Swamy Math signal. Similarly, those coming from Banashankari or Sangam Circle will have to take a U-turn from Rajalakshmi Hospital or go through Sarakki or Central Mall in Jayanagar 9th Block.
This diversion has also affected those coming from J.P. Nagar, who now have to travel an additional 1.5 to 2 km to reach the flyover ramp due to the closure of right turns from J.P. Nagar I and II phases. A traffic police officer manning the Raghavendra Swamy Math signal admitted that despite the right turn restrictions, traffic remains heavy due to weekend rush and devotees visiting nearby temples. He said right turns have been stopped only at this junction to ensure smooth flow on the flyover.
Bengaluru South DCP Shivaprakash Devaraju said that stopping right turns has reduced traffic congestion on the flyover, but it has led to heavy congestion in Jayanagar and J.P. Nagar. They believe that allowing right turns will create many bottlenecks and worsen the traffic situation.
Traffic expert Prof. M.N. Srihari criticised the approach and suggested that closing right turns is not a comprehensive solution. He pointed out that the single entry and exit point of the flyover aggravates the problem and stressed the need to consult traffic experts to develop a more effective plan.
