The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has commenced work to widen service lanes on the Chennai-Bengaluru Highway in Vellore. According to NHAI, Traffic congestion was present along the road due to the current service lanes' inability to handle many vehicles, particularly during peak hours. This issue became more pronounced after government town buses were permitted to use these stretches to prevent accidents involving commuters waiting along the highway to board local buses.
Reason for Service Lane Widening
Buses were the only vehicles allowed in the service lanes when they were first built. However, when more cars entered the road, including tractors, trucks, lorries, and private enterprise vehicles, the lanes became clogged. According to driversTraffic jams on both sides of the service lanes were a common occurrence, especially during rush hour. The decision to widen the service lanes was made by NHAI authorities to reduce traffic congestion and guarantee driver safety.
Elimination of Intruders
Encroachments between Green Circle below the elevated highway and the Collectorate office, a distance of 1.2 km, were demolished to begin the widening construction. It is simpler to expand the lanes in this area of the service lanes because there are more open areas and fewer buildings than in other areas.
A plan to expand the service lanes
In order to make room for additional cars, the proposal calls for tearing down the current stormwater drain, which is three feet wide and four feet deep, and installing a new drain at the far end of the service lanes. To avoid flooding during the monsoon, the carriageway's current width will be quadrupled, and water channels and culverts will be cleaned along the way. Electric wires and poles owned by Tangedco will be moved to provide greater room for roads. It is anticipated that the whole project will be finished before the arrival of the northeast monsoon.
Advantages of Expanding Service Lanes
The Chennai-Bengaluru Highway's traffic flow would be greatly enhanced and congestion will be decreased by the expansion of the service lanes. By giving cars more room to maneuver smoothly, it will also guarantee driver safety. The project's objectives are to improve driving overall and lower the likelihood of accidents brought on by heavy traffic.
Also Read: