Bengaluru: NHAI to build Rs 35-Crore Sadahalli underpass; smooth airport-bound flow ahead

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is building a 750-metre-long, six-lane underpass at Sadahalli junction on Ballari Road. This will remove the last traffic signal on the main road to Kempegowda International Airport, allowing airport-bound vehicles to move without stopping.

During construction, traffic will be diverted near Sadahalli junction for about two years. NHAI will first widen the existing service roads on both sides to manage the increased traffic load and minimise inconvenience to commuters.

A concrete slab will be constructed to help residents of Sadahalli and nearby villages travel toward the city during the construction period. The junction is used by locals as well as airport-bound traffic, making access for residents an important part of the plan.

This is not the first attempt to eliminate the traffic signal at Sadahalli. About ten years ago, NHAI proposed an overpass, then switched to an underpass. Work started in 2019 but was stopped due to design flaws. The project has now been revived with approval from NHAI headquarters.

The underpass project, costing Rs 35 crore, has been awarded to a contractor. Work is scheduled to start in February. NHAI has written to traffic police seeking permission for diversions and has instructed the contractor to follow the timeline strictly.

The 22-km stretch from Hebbal to Sadahalli has no traffic signals on the main carriageway, thanks to elevated corridors and flyovers. Sadahalli junction is the only signal, used by airport traffic and residents from nearby villages traveling toward the city.

As part of wider upgrades, NHAI is building a 1-km service road near Yelahanka Air Force Station using the cut-and-cover method. Except for this stretch, service roads are already available along the highway. Once works at Sadahalli and Yelahanka are completed, along with recent improvements near Hebbal flyover and Jakkur Aerodrome, traffic on KIA Road will flow smoothly.