Raipur
Raipur’s administration is set to resume the long-stalled construction of the Skywalk, necessitating major changes in the city’s traffic management. Collector Gaurav Singh has ordered a one-way traffic system to be implemented at night on two key routes around Shastri Chowk starting 27 November. This temporary arrangement will be in force for one month.
Traffic Diversion Details
The one-way traffic will be imposed daily from 10 pm to 6 am.
Phase 1 (First 15 Days): One-way traffic will be enforced from Shastri Chowk via the Multi-Level Parking towards Jaistambh Chowk.
Phase 2 (Next 15 Days): One-way traffic will shift to the route from Shastri Chowk to Mekahara Chowk.
Residents must follow these different routes during the two phases over the one-month period.
Safety and Enforcement Measures
The administration stated that special arrangements are being made across the route to minimise inconvenience caused by the diversion.
- Reflective barricades will be installed at the entry and exit points to ensure visibility at night.
- Trained guards will be deployed to direct traffic and maintain order.
- Information boards will be placed at the start and end of the one-way stretches.
The Collector has appealed to citizens to follow the temporary traffic plan for their safety and convenience, ensuring the Skywalk work proceeds without interruptions or accidents.
Project Cost and Scope
The BJP government announced the resumption of the Skywalk construction and approved the budget.
- Total revised cost: ₹37.75 crore (₹37,75,70,682)
- Increase from previous estimate: 20.17%
The department has issued directives to focus on quality of work, design, and environmental standards. Authorities have been instructed to begin work soon and complete it on schedule.
Benefits and Final Structure
The completed structure will significantly ease pedestrian movement.
- Patients at Ambedkar Hospital will be able to reach DKS Hospital without facing traffic congestion.
- Lifts will be installed at the connecting point.
- A rotary will be constructed on the Shastri Chowk section.
- RCC slabs, tiles, and steel railings will be added.
- Poly-carbonate sheets will be installed on top for protection from rain and sun.
A survey indicated that over 40,000 people walk around Shastri Chowk daily.
Current Status of the Structure
The structure connecting Multi-Level Parking, Jaistambh Chowk, Shastri Chowk, and Ambedkar Hospital is currently ready, but work remains incomplete.
A PWD investigation found theft of key materials:
- ACP sheets
- Aluminium frames
- Divider railings
While the steel structure and nut-bolts remain intact, work related to welding, painting, flooring, hood installation, and slab fixing is still pending. Exposure to the elements has caused rusting in several parts.
