Delhi: The Old Rao Tula Ram (RTR) flyover, connecting the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport to South Delhi, is set to reopen from Monday evening following urgent repair work. The carriageway towards Vasant Vihar was closed on October 20 after Delhi Traffic Police detected deteriorating concrete, cracks, and exposed iron rods along the gap slab section.

Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Parvesh Verma inspected the site on Monday morning along with officials to review the repair work. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Verma stated that necessary repairs are complete and a comprehensive structural audit is underway to ensure the strength and long-term safety of the structure, which was built in 2009.

ALSO READ: Delhi's Old RTR Flyover Closed After Cracks Found At Two Spots; Traffic Diverted Till October 25 | Check Advisory

Guideline For Commuters

While the reopening offers major relief to daily commuters, vehicular movement across the stretch will remain restricted during the initial trial phase.

  • Light Vehicles Allowed: Only two-wheelers and light four-wheelers will be permitted on the repaired carriageway while authorities assess its performance under live traffic loads.
  • Heavy Vehicle Ban: Heavy commercial vehicles remain strictly prohibited from accessing the flyover.
  • Height Barriers Installed: The PWD is installing height barriers at the entrance to prevent heavy vehicles from entering.

Speaking to The Indian Express, Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi Traffic) Vikas Kumar said that additional traffic personnel will be deployed round-the-clock to divert heavy vehicles before they reach the flyover.

ALSO READ: Delhi Pollution Control Measures From Nov 1: 50% WFH, Double Parking Fees, No Entry Of BS-4 Vehicles | Check Full List

How Will The Flyover Reopening Benefit Commuters?

The partial reopening will immediately ease traffic congestion that has impacted surrounding roads over the past week. The Old RTR flyover serves as a major connecting route for vehicles travelling from the airport and Gurugram towards Vasant Vihar, South Delhi, Noida, and other parts of the National Capital Region (NCR).

The temporary shutdown had forced all vehicles onto the adjoining service road, creating massive bottlenecks. However, it should now clear as light vehicles return to the flyover.

(With Inputs From PTI)