The Indira Gandhi Flyover in Pimpri Camp and the Chinchwad Station flyover, crucial bridges in Pimpri-Chinchwad city, have been deemed unsafe after their structural lifespans expired. The Railway Department has instructed the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) to proceed with their demolition to avoid potential risks.
The Indira Gandhi Flyover, which connects the old Pune-Mumbai highway to Pimpri village and spans the Pune-Lonavala railway line, is known as the city's first flyover. Despite three years of reinforcement work, the Railway Department has reiterated its demand for its dismantling due to safety concerns. Similarly, the Chinchwad Station flyover, built 47 years ago, has now been declared hazardous and must be removed. Although a parallel bridge was constructed 15 years ago to accommodate traffic, the removal of the older structure is expected to increase congestion in the area.
“The structural lifespan of both flyovers has ended, and the Railway Department has formally requested their demolition. We plan to discuss this with Commissioner Shekhar Singh before making a final decision,” said Pramod Ombhase, Chief Engineer of PCMC.
The potential demolition poses logistical challenges for traffic flow, particularly for the Indira Gandhi Flyover, a vital route for daily commuters. Although the PCMC had previously conducted a structural audit and reinforced the Pimpri bridge, the Railway Department maintains that it remains unsafe. Residents of the area are preparing for potential disruptions, as the decision on whether to repair or replace these aging flyovers will significantly impact traffic management and future infrastructure projects in the city.
(Punekar News)
