Bhopal Railway Overbridge Redesign Underway Following Public Criticism

The controversial 90-degree railway overbridge (ROB) in Bhopal is slated for a redesign, prompted by significant public criticism and media attention. The Central Expert Committee has advised improvements to the bridge’s hazardous design, specifically recommending an increase in the turn radius from 6 meters to 16.7 meters. This modification aims to eliminate the sharp turn, enhancing safety for heavy vehicles. The overbridge connects heavily populated areas like Aishbagh, experiencing substantial daily traffic. Design flaws have caused persistent traffic jams and increased accident risks, leading to sustained complaints from residents and commuters. The recommended changes are expected to provide considerable relief to those affected. A new detailed project report (DPR) will be prepared based on the committee’s recommendation, and submitted to the state government and the Municipal Corporation. The redesign will be overseen by the railways and the construction agency, with officials stating minimal impact on the project timeline. Initially budgeted at Rs 17.37 crore, the ROB project commenced on May 21, 2022, with an original completion target of August 2024, though it remains unfinished as of August 2025. Following the viral spread of images highlighting the bridge’s issues in June, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav intervened, resulting in the suspension of eight engineers and blacklisting of the construction agency and design firm.