The collapse of the Butibori flyover on December 24 has been attributed to overloading, according to a delayed expert report. The flyover, closed for two months due to structural issues, traffic restrictions, and ongoing investigations by the NHAI expert team, has caused significant disruption to commuters in the area.Repair work on the collapsed flyover is scheduled to begin in 10 days and is expected to be completed in 45 days, allowing traffic to resume.
In the meantime, commuters are battling daily two-kilometer-long traffic jams, stretching from Butibori Square to Dongargaon, which have become a source of immense frustration. Vehicles that previously moved directly from MIDC to Wardha Road are now being diverted through the Butibori intersection, exacerbating congestion. Despite the inconvenience, toll collection has continued without any relief for drivers, and no agency has stepped in to address the worsening traffic situation.Local residents have expressed concerns about the quality of construction and are urging that the repaired bridge be thoroughly tested for safety. The flyover, originally built under the supervision of then-NHAI Project Director Nitin Yeotkar, is now under scrutiny for its inadequate construction.
Reports suggest that a 187-tonne truck was responsible for the flyover’s collapse. The truck was intercepted at a toll post following the incident, and NHAI officials had announced plans in January to file an FIR against the truck operator. However, there has been no update on whether the FIR was lodged, nor has the expert team’s full report been disclosed.Tragically, on January 18, a bike rider lost their life after being hit by a truck at the Butibori intersection while the flyover remained closed.NHAI Regional Officer RP Singh recently stated, “The expert report on the bridge collapse is ready. The improvement plan is finalized, and work will begin in 10 days, with completion expected in 45 days.” Traffic relief is eagerly awaited as repair efforts finally begin.
