The State Highways Department has revived plans to construct two down ramps from the Gandhipuram flyover in Coimbatore to enhance traffic movement and connectivity. The original proposal was submitted in 2020 and approved with an estimated cost of Rs 0.24 billion, but was postponed due to a proposed metro rail corridor. With the metro project now rejected, the department is proceeding with ramps leading to 100 Feet Road and Bharathiar Road, assessing additional land requirements for the former. No private land acquisition is needed for the latter. Revised cost estimates will be finalized soon, with the project expected to commence within a month.
Road Infrastructure Gandhipuram
The revival of the Gandhipuram flyover ramps plan marks a significant moment for Coimbatore’s urban transport landscape, especially at a time when the city is grappling with rising vehicle density and increasing pressure on road infrastructure. Gandhipuram, being one of the busiest commercial and transit hubs in Coimbatore, experiences chronic congestion during peak hours, affecting commuters, public transport, and emergency services alike. The renewed focus on adding dedicated ramps to the existing flyover is seen as a long-awaited corrective measure that could transform traffic flow and restore efficiency to this crucial junction.
The Gandhipuram flyover, operational for several years, was originally designed to allow through-traffic to bypass ground-level intersections. However, the absence of adequate entry and exit ramps limited its effectiveness, forcing vehicles to merge abruptly at surface roads. Over time, traffic volume in Coimbatore has expanded significantly due to urban growth, commercial activity, and increased private vehicle ownership. According to broader urban transport assessments discussed by the Tamil Nadu government, mid-sized cities like Coimbatore now face congestion levels comparable to metropolitan areas, making infrastructure upgrades unavoidable.
Designed Ramps Authorities
The revived ramps plan aims to address these shortcomings by enabling smoother transitions between arterial roads and the flyover From an urban planning perspective, the revival reflects a shift toward optimizing existing infrastructure rather than relying solely on new constructions. By enhancing the Gandhipuram flyover with properly designed ramps, authorities intend to maximize its utility while keeping land acquisition and environmental impact relatively limited. This approach aligns with the broader transport modernization goals outlined by the Tamil Nadu Highways Department, which has emphasized junction improvements, grade.
separators, and intelligent traffic management systems across the state. More information on such initiatives can be accessed through Traffic experts believe that the addition of ramps will significantly reduce conflict points at ground level, particularly near bus stands, commercial complexes, and pedestrian crossings around Gandhipuram. At present, buses, two-wheelers, cars, and auto-rickshaws compete for limited road space, often resulting in slow movement and frequent bottlenecks. The ramps are expected to segregate fast-moving through-traffic from local circulation, thereby improving safety and predictability for all road users. Similar flyover ramp integrations in other.
Ongoing Smart Infrastructure
Indian cities have shown measurable improvements in average travel speeds and reduced accident rates The revival also holds importance within the context of Coimbatore’s broader smart city and urban mobility ambitions. As part of ongoing smart infrastructure initiatives, the city has been focusing on improving last-mile connectivity, pedestrian infrastructure, and public transport integration. The Gandhipuram area, being a major transit interchange, plays a central role in this ecosystem. Enhancing the flyover with ramps complements other efforts such as junction redesigns and signal optimization, details of which are often discussed in urban development.
Infrastructure news platforms. These internal references help readers track how individual projects contribute to a larger mobility framework Financially and administratively, the revived plan is expected to undergo fresh feasibility assessments to account for current traffic patterns and (Port) construction costs. Earlier proposals were reportedly delayed due to design challenges and funding considerations, but renewed political and administrative backing has brought the project back into focus. Infrastructure analysts note that phased execution and stakeholder consultations will be critical, especially given the dense commercial development surrounding Gandhipuram.
Construction Public Response
Lessons from other flyover upgrades in Tamil Nadu, documented by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways suggest that transparent planning and timely communication can significantly reduce public resistance during construction Public response to the revival has largely been positive, with commuters and traders welcoming any move that promises congestion relief. However, concerns remain about temporary disruptions during construction, particularly for small businesses dependent on foot traffic. Authorities have indicated that traffic diversions and work schedules will be planned carefully to minimize impact, a strategy increasingly adopted in urban projects nationwide.
Coverage of similar mitigation approaches can be found From a long-term perspective, the Gandhipuram flyover ramps project could set a precedent for revisiting underperforming infrastructure across Coimbatore. Rather than viewing flyovers as static assets, urban planners are increasingly treating them as adaptable systems that can be upgraded in response to evolving traffic behavior. This mindset is essential for rapidly growing cities, where infrastructure built a decade ago may no longer align with present realities. The revival therefore represents not just a single project, but a broader commitment to responsive and data-driven urban development.
Execution Moves Forward
The revival of the Coimbatore Gandhipuram flyover ramps plan signals a pragmatic and much-needed intervention in the city’s transport network. By addressing long-standing design gaps, the project has the potential to ease congestion, improve safety, and enhance commuter (India) experience at one of Coimbatore’s most critical junctions. As execution moves forward, its success will depend on thoughtful design, effective coordination between agencies, and continuous engagement with the public. If implemented well, the upgraded flyover could become a model for sustainable urban traffic solutions not only in Coimbatore but across similar Indian cities navigating the challenges of rapid growth.
Q1. What is the Gandhipuram flyover ramps plan?
It is a proposal to construct entry and exit ramps to the existing Gandhipuram flyover to improve traffic circulation.
Q2. Why was the project revived now?
Rising traffic congestion and public demand pushed authorities to re-examine the stalled proposal.
Q3. Who is implementing the project?
The project is expected to be handled by Tamil Nadu Highways Department in coordination with Coimbatore Corporation.
Q4. How will commuters benefit?
It will reduce bottlenecks, travel time, and improve connectivity across major arterial roads.
Q5. Will there be traffic disruptions during construction?
Temporary diversions may be introduced, but phased execution is planned to minimize inconvenience.
