The 90-degree turn confuses many road users.
Bhopal city (India) suddenly became the center of attention after the image of a railway overpass with a nearly 90-degree curve spread widely on social networks.
Serious error detected
As soon as the image of the 90-degree turn on the overpass went viral, netizens and local residents widely shared it, expressing concerns about the safety of drivers having to pass this sharp turn.
Many people believe that this design can be dangerous for road users, especially in bad weather conditions or when traffic is heavy.
The 648-meter-long flyover, which cost about $2 million to build, is designed to improve connectivity between Mahamai Ka Bagh, Pushpa Nagar, and the railway station area with the center of New Bhopal. The project is expected to serve about 300,000 residents and help solve traffic congestion in the area.
However, the unusual design with a 90-degree bend has raised concerns about the feasibility and safety of the project, forcing the government to review the entire project.
Establishment of a special committee
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has taken to social media to announce that serious flaws have been found in the construction of the Aishbagh flyover and has ordered a full investigation. The decision to investigate was made after images of the unusual design of the bridge caused a stir.
The investigation results showed that 8 engineers of the Public Works and Transport Department (PWD) were disciplined according to regulations. Of the 8 engineers disciplined, 7 engineers, including 2 chief engineers, were immediately suspended from work.
At the same time, an internal investigation was also conducted into a retired chief engineer. In addition to the individual handling, the construction company and the project design consultancy unit were also blacklisted by the government.
A special committee was set up to assess and recommend necessary adjustments to the bridge. The Prime Minister affirmed that the bridge will only be officially inaugurated when all improvements are completed, demonstrating a high sense of responsibility towards traffic safety and people.
The committee will be tasked with comprehensively assessing the current design, considering possible modifications and making specific recommendations to ensure the safety and efficiency of the project.
Officials in charge said the current design is limited by limited land and its proximity to the metro station.
According to the engineers, if there is more land, the 90-degree curve can be transformed into a smoother curve, ensuring greater safety for road users. However, expanding the land will lead to large additional costs, slowing down the construction progress and delaying the inauguration date of the bridge.