Another major infrastructure project aimed at easing traffic congestion in Jalandhar is set to begin at the busy Guru Nanak Pura railway crossing, where an arch-shaped Road Over Bridge (ROB) will be constructed on the Delhi–Jammu railway route. The project is considered crucial as more than 100 trains pass through this section every day.
According to the project design, the new ROB will include a distinctive arch-shaped steel structure. The introduction of this structure will make it one of the most modern railway overbridges planned in the city. The bridge will be approximately 300 to 500 metres long and will include a steel arc superstructure over the railway tracks. To ease out the people walking dedicated pedestrian pathways on both sides will be built. Keeping safety in mind, all necessary measures are been taken care of. This is done by building railings and safety barriers along with inclusion of service lanes beneath the bridge for local movement. Improved access for residents living around the crossing is taken important care of. The ROB will be different from other conventional ROB’S around the city. The main portion of the bridge will consist of a steel arch supported by strong retaining walls and approach ramps.
The project is expected to cost more than ₹50 crore and will be built under the supervision of the Railway authorities. Railway authorities will undertake the construction of the ROB. The cost of utility shifting related to railway infrastructure will be handled by the railway authorities while the expenses linked to shifting electricity lines, water pipelines and other civic utilities will be shared by the Punjab Government and local authorities.
The crossing is so important as it forms an important link between Jalandhar city and several residential and commercial areas and also connects Punjab with the national capital region through the Delhi–Jammu rail corridor. More than 100 trains, including superfast, express, Vande Bharat, passenger and goods trains, pass through this route every day.
Officials believe the ROB will eliminate one of the city’s biggest railway bottlenecks and significantly improve traffic flow once completed. Construction of this ROB is also considered as a permanent solution for residents who were frustrated from daily traffic jams that often stretch for hundreds of metres due to frequent train movement. School buses, ambulances, office commuters and local residents regularly faced delays, particularly during peak hours.
Once completed, the project is expected to provide uninterrupted connectivity, reduced waiting time at railway gates and improved traffic movement for thousands of commuters travelling through one of Jalandhar’s busiest corridors every day.