Nearly two months after the opening of the Indora-Dighori flyover, construction of the pending underpass at the railway crossings in Pachpaoli remains stalled due to opposition from local residents. The delay has left a crucial component of the infrastructure project incomplete, despite assurances that the remaining work would begin once the flyover became operational. Senior National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officials said construction could not proceed as residents were apprehensive about the inconvenience during the construction period and the proposed closure of the two existing railway level crossings. The Railway authorities, however, are firm on closing the level crossings as part of the plan to improve safety and streamline traffic movement. The disagreement has left the project caught between the residents’ objections and the Railways’ requirement. Residents fear that closure of both crossings would disrupt their daily commute and force them to take longer routes to reach nearby localities and essential services. “Both crossings are used regularly by local residents.

 

If they are closed, even a short journey to the other side of the railway tracks could become a long detour. The authorities must first explain what alternative arrangements will be provided,” said Pranjali Waghmare, a local resident. The construction activity itself has added to their concerns. Residents apprehend that excavation, movement of heavy machinery and restrictions on road access could cause prolonged inconvenience, particularly to elderly people, schoolchildren and those requiring medical assistance. “We are not against development, but the work should not leave residents stranded for months. There must be a proper plan for local traffic and access to homes before the crossings are closed,” said Akshay Badole, another resident.

 

NHAI officials said the matter had been referred to the district administration and the railways for discussions with residents and resolution of their objections. Construction will begin after the necessary clearance is obtained from the concerned authorities. The Indora-Dighori flyover was inaugurated in September, with authorities assuring that the remaining underpass work would be taken up after the main structure became operational. The project envisages underpasses at the Pachpaoli railway crossings to facilitate smoother movement and eliminate dependence on level crossings. While the flyover has provided relief to commuters travelling between Indora and Dighori, the incomplete Railway-crossing component remains a concern. The delay has raised questions over the timeline for completion of the entire project. Unless the concerns of residents are addressed and alternative arrangements finalised, the underpass work is likely to remain uncertain.