One of Raipur’s most controversial and long-stalled urban infrastructure projects is finally set to be revived. The iconic Skywalk from Jaistambh Chowk to Shastri Chowk over G.E. Road, which remained incomplete and encumbered by administrative inaction for nearly seven years, has now received financial sanction of Rs 37.75 crore from the Chhattisgarh Government. The development was confirmed to ‘The Hitavada’ by senior BJP MLA from Raipur West and former Minister Rajesh Munat, who played a key role in conceptualising the original project in 2017 under the previous BJP regime. Speaking over phone, Munat stated, “The government has now approved the tender for its pending construction.

 

Work will restart soon and the Skywalk will be completed as per the original design.” It is significant to recall that ‘The Hitavada’ had, through its Civic Lens segment in the April 30 edition, carried a detailed report drawing attention to the abandoned project’s neglected condition and the dire need for revival. The editorial appeal prompted swift political response, following which Rajesh Munat gave a public assurance that the Skywalk project would be revived. Wednesday’s tender clearance by the State Government marks the formal beginning of that assurance being delivered. Officials informed that the revised proposal includes structural strengthening, roofing, and completion of all pedestrian connectivity routes as per the 2017 DPR.

 

While Congress halted the project during its tenure citing urban clutter and cost overruns, the new BJP-led government has reasserted its significance for pedestrian safety, decongestion, and urban continuity. With strategic access points from Jaistambh Chowk to Shastri Chowk over G.E. Road via several key intersections, the Skywalk is expected to reconnect major commercial zones while minimising road-level conflict. Once operational, the elevated walkway is expected to significantly streamline foot traffic and restore public confidence in civic project completion.