Suhail Bhat
Srinagar, Nov 26: The much-anticipated Sangrama flyover on the Srinagar-Uri National Highway is now operational, providing much-needed relief to commuters who have long faced traffic congestion at this crucial junction.
After successful trial runs, traffic has been allowed on both sides of the flyover for the next 10-15 days as part of safety protocols before its official inauguration.
This development is a significant milestone, offering relief to thousands of commuters who regularly face severe traffic snarls at the junction. The flyover is expected to reduce travel time for fruit-laden trucks, improve safety at the junction, and enhance connectivity.
“This junction is the lifeline connecting Kupwara and Baramulla districts. The opening of this flyover is an important milestone,” Tariq Maglu, president of the Traders Federation Baramulla, said.
Maglu pointed out that during the fruit season, hundreds of trucks loaded with apples from Sopore, Asia’s one of the largest fruit market, would often get stuck for hours, causing massive delays.
“This is a dream come true. I am grateful to everyone, especially Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, for making this project possible. It has become our lifeline,” he said.
He also emphasized how students, businessmen, and ambulances were frequently caught in traffic jams. “This is a critical development for the people and the business community of the district,” he added.
The flyover, constructed by the Border Roads Organization’s Project Beacon, was completed in just over a year at a cost of Rs 29.77 crore. Work began in June 2023 and aimed to alleviate severe congestion at the junction.
“Our team worked with dedication and professionalism to ensure the timely completion. Despite initial challenges, such as shifting utilities, we managed to finish the flyover on time,” a BRO official said.
Irfan Hafeez Lone, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Kreeri-Wagoora, emphasized the urgency of the project. “The traffic volume at this junction had made it a death trap. Accidents were frequent, and commuters faced long delays. The completion of this flyover is a collective achievement. It will direct vehicles heading to Baramulla onto the flyover, while those bound for Sopore will use the side road,” he said, adding that he hopes the flyover will soon be officially dedicated to the public.
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