After a considerable delay, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has finally restarted work on a crucial flyover bridge near Ranasthalam in Srikakulam district. Construction was initially halted due to significant objections from local residents. While the NHAI completed a six-lane road connecting Visakhapatnam and Ichchapuram four years ago, the Ranasthalam flyover project faced strong resistance, preventing its progress.
Local traders expressed concerns that the extensive six-lane road development and the proposed flyover would severely disrupt their businesses and overall economic activity. Adding to the complexities, NHAI officials also faced obstacles in acquiring land for a bypass road due to protests from local farmers. Consequently, Ranasthalam, a vital junction serving approximately two lakh people in nearby villages, became notorious for persistent traffic jams and frequent accidents, largely due to its narrow and inadequate roadways.
Responding to these challenges, Etcherla-BJP MLA N. Eswara Rao intervened, engaging with NHAI officials to advocate for the flyover’s construction along the existing route, thereby avoiding the need for further land acquisition for a bypass. Speaking to a local publication, Mr. Rao revealed that the project, encompassing a 1.5 km stretch of six-lane road and the flyover, is estimated to cost ₹250 crore and is expected to be completed within two years. “We specifically asked the NHAI to modify the flyover’s design to facilitate unrestricted movement for the public,” stated Mr. Eswara Rao. “An ‘open model’ flyover will guarantee that business activities in Ranasthalam town continue unimpeded, providing a significant advantage for local traders and ensuring a smooth flow of traffic.”