The Old Rao Tula Ram (RTR) flyover connecting the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport side to Vasant Vihar in Delhi has been temporarily closed after cracks were detected at two locations on its carriageway, officials said on Wednesday.
The closure has been imposed as a precautionary measure to prevent accidents, with the Public Works Department (PWD) undertaking repairs on the affected stretches in coordination with the Delhi Traffic Police.
According to the traffic police advisory, the flyover will remain closed until October 25. Repair work is expected to be completed by the morning of Monday, October 26, after which the road may reopen, subject to the completion of repairs and the necessary safety checks.
Traffic Diverted To Service Road, Congestion Reported
Following the closure, vehicles travelling from the IGI Airport side towards Vasant Vihar are being diverted onto the adjoining service road. The diversion has resulted in traffic congestion and long queues behind the flyover, particularly on the route towards Munirka.
Officials said the damage at both locations necessitated the closure of the entire carriageway, as keeping even a part of the flyover open was not considered feasible.
Traffic personnel have been deployed to regulate the movement of vehicles and manage congestion in the affected area. The Delhi Traffic Police has also issued an advisory on social media and updated Google Maps to show the closure and diversion through the service road.
PWD Carrying Out Repairs At Two Locations
The PWD is repairing both damaged stretches in coordination with the Delhi Traffic Police. The closure will remain in place while the work is carried out to ensure the safety of commuters using the route.
The Old RTR flyover is an important road link for vehicles travelling from the airport towards Vasant Vihar and nearby areas. The temporary closure is likely to affect commuters using this stretch, particularly during busy traffic hours.
Commuters Advised To Plan Their Journeys
Commuters travelling towards Vasant Vihar, Munirka and adjoining areas have been advised to account for possible delays and follow directions issued by traffic personnel.
Motorists should check their routes before starting their journeys, allow additional travel time and use the indicated diversion. The flyover is expected to reopen by the morning of October 26, depending on the progress of repairs and the required safety clearances.