Indian Railways has approved a Rs. 1.67 bn project to construct a four-lane Road Over Bridge (ROB) at Alkapuri in Vadodara Division of Western Railway. The facility is intended to improve road connectivity between Alkapuri and Kalaghoda and ease congestion around the existing railway crossing.

The project will be implemented jointly with the Gujarat Government on an equal cost-sharing basis. Indian Railways will contribute approximately Rs. 832.77 mn, while the state government will provide an equivalent amount towards construction of the bridge.

The existing Alkapuri Road Under Bridge (RUB), located near Vadodara Railway Station, serves as an important east-west link in the city. However, its vertical clearance of about 3 metres restricts the movement of larger vehicles, while waterlogging during the monsoon frequently disrupts traffic and creates difficulties for commuters.

The proposed grade-separated facility is designed to overcome these limitations by providing a four-lane crossing with greater capacity. It will allow railway operations to continue without disruption and improve access to Vadodara Railway Station, the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation bus station and the upcoming High-Speed Rail station.

Traffic assessments have recorded peak-hour movement of more than 1,600 Passenger Car Units (PCU) per hour in the area. The current crossing also has several traffic conflict points and inadequate pedestrian facilities, making it insufficient for present and projected demand. The new bridge is intended to provide a more effective crossing arrangement, strengthen road connectivity and improve movement around the railway station and adjoining parts of Vadodara.