South India’s inaugural double-decker rail-cum-road flyover was partially opened for a public trial run on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the city’s infrastructure development. The flyover, which spans from Ragigudda to Central Silk Board, is a key component of the Yellow Line of the Bengaluru Metro.
Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D K Shivakumar led the trial with a ‘walk’ on the newly constructed flyover, accompanied by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy and other officials.
One-Sided Access at Central Silk Board Junction
Built by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) at a cost of ₹449 crore, the flyover is currently open for vehicular movement on one side only. The Central Silk Board Junction, which intersects with the Outer Ring Road and Hosur Road, is one of the busiest junctions in Bengaluru, known for heavy traffic congestion.
The double-decker design aims to alleviate traffic bottlenecks at the Central Silk Board Junction, incorporating loops and ramps to facilitate smoother flow. BMRCL officials stated, “The rail-cum-road flyover from Ragigudda to Central Silk Board is complete with loops and ramps stretching 5.12 km. It enables signal-free travel, significantly benefiting road users traveling to HSR Layout and Hosur Road, saving over 30 percent in travel time.”
While the main structure is operational, the ramps connecting HSR Layout to the road flyover towards Ragigudda and BTM Layout, measuring 1.37 km, are still under construction and are expected to be completed by June 2025.