In a significant step to alleviate traffic headaches and enhance public safety, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (BMRCL) has issued a firm directive. The circular instructs all contractors and supervisors involved in metro projects to promptly clear away all construction debris and waste immediately after work concludes.
This decisive action follows a wave of public complaints regarding leftover construction materials and obstructive barricades near metro sites, which have been severely impeding smooth traffic movement throughout the city.
Under the new mandate, all leftover materials, temporary barricades, and other forms of waste must be removed the moment construction work is finished. Contractors and project supervisors are now strictly accountable for ensuring that road carriageways and footpaths are fully restored to their original width and condition without any undue delay. To uphold these standards, site engineers and inspectors will actively monitor the clearance process and officially certify that all affected roads have been properly restored.
The detailed guidelines further stipulate that roads must be completely free of obstructions, featuring appropriate pavement levels, effective drainage, and clear signage to prevent waterlogging and guarantee safety. Any potholes that emerge during construction must be repaired immediately. Furthermore, debris found on medians or beneath viaducts must also be cleared without hesitation, according to the circular.
BMRCL has particularly stressed that meticulous traffic management is paramount during both the construction and post-construction clearance phases. Traffic cones, barricades, and relevant signage are required to be prominently placed during work periods and then removed as soon as the work is completed. If any traffic diversions become necessary, prior notification must be given to the traffic police, and, wherever feasible, work should be scheduled during non-peak hours to minimize disruption for commuters.
While the directive is strict, it does allow for exceptions in cases where unavoidable delays occur due to adverse weather conditions or resource shortages. However, in such scenarios, contractors are required to obtain written approval from BMRCL, clearly outlining the reasons for the delay and providing concrete timelines for the complete restoration of the affected areas.
This crucial new directive came into immediate effect on September 20 and will be rigorously enforced through regular inspections conducted by the engineers-in-charge.