After years of planning and delays, the parallel Road over Bridge (RoB) at Falaknuma has finally been opened for public use. The new bridge is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion in the Old City, particularly along the route from Chandrayangutta to Charminar.
Project Overview & Features
- The bridge spans 360 metres and was built at a cost of ₹52.03 crore.
- It runs parallel to the existing RoB over the Secunderabad – Falaknuma railway line, jointly constructed by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and South Central Railway (SCR).
- The structure includes separate pedestrian paths for safer movement, alongside dedicated vehicular lanes.
- The bridge connects important routes – aiding travel to Falaknuma, Engine Bowli, Shamsheergunj, Aliabad, Chandrayangutta, and areas around Charminar.
Purpose & Impact
- The older RoB had become a major bottleneck due to growing traffic, especially heavy vehicles, causing long delays during peak hours.
- With the new RoB, a large portion of traffic particularly from Chandrayangutta toward Charminar will now be rerouted, easing pressure on the old bridge.
- Commuters have expressed relief, noting that travel times in congested stretches used to increase by 20 to 30 minutes; the new bridge is expected to reduce that significantly.
- The development is also seen as a boost for local tourism, given the proximity to Falaknuma Palace and the Charminar area.
Construction & Challenges
- The project was approved in 2018 under the Municipal Administration & Urban Development (MAUD) department.
- Construction began in 2021, but the project faced multiple delays due to utility shifting (water and power lines), land acquisition issues, and demolition of structures on the southern approach.
- In recent weeks, final touches were made including road laying and encroachment clearance paving the way for its completion.
- The bridge was inaugurated by Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar and AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi, marking an important milestone for South Hyderabad.
What To Watch
- How effectively traffic shifts to the new RoB during peak hours.
- Whether congestion decreases significantly on the old bridge.
- Proper maintenance of pedestrian pathways and safety features.
- Coordination of this RoB with upcoming metro and road projects in the Old City.
