₹49-crore project at Khamhardih–Kachna crossing expected to ease traffic congestion and benefit thousands of commuters in Raipur
TFP Bureau, Raipur, May 14, 2026: The long-awaited railway over-bridge at the Khamhardih–Kachna railway crossing in Raipur is set to open soon, with about 96 per cent of the construction work already completed. Deputy Chief Minister and Public Works Minister Arun Sao inspected the final phase of the project on Wednesday and directed officials and the construction agency to ensure the early completion of the remaining work so that the bridge can be opened for public use at the earliest.
During the site visit, the Deputy Chief Minister walked across the under-construction over-bridge and reviewed the progress of various components of the project. He sought detailed information from engineers and departmental officials regarding the bridge’s technical specifications, structural standards and safety measures. Emphasising quality and durability, he instructed the authorities to ensure the use of high-quality poles and lighting systems for proper illumination on the bridge and its approach roads.
Senior officials of the Public Works Department accompanied him during the inspection, including Department Secretary Mukesh Kumar Bansal, Chief Engineer V.K. Bhatpahari, and Bridges Division Chief Engineer S.K. Kori, along with representatives of the construction agency.
Major Relief Expected for Commuters
Speaking after the inspection, Sao said that the over-bridge project has reached its final stage and only minor finishing works remain. “Nearly 96 per cent of the work has been completed. The remaining tasks will be completed quickly, after which the bridge will be opened for vehicular traffic,” he said.
Once operational, the railway over-bridge is expected to provide significant relief to thousands of residents of Raipur city and nearby villages who currently face delays due to frequent closure of railway gates at the crossing. The congestion at the level crossing often causes long traffic queues, affecting daily commuters, school students, emergency vehicles and transport services.
The Deputy Chief Minister noted that improving urban infrastructure and streamlining traffic movement in the state capital is a key priority of the government. He said the Kachna over-bridge will play an important role in reducing travel time, easing traffic pressure and ensuring smoother connectivity between different parts of the city.
₹49-Crore Project on Raipur–Waltair Railway Line
According to officials, the railway over-bridge is being constructed at an estimated cost of about ₹49 crore on the Raipur–Waltair railway line between the Khamhardih and Kachna areas.
Most of the major construction components of the project have already been completed. This includes the central span over the railway tracks, bridge structure, and approach roads on both sides. Currently, painting and finishing work on the structure is underway.
Officials said that once the finishing work is completed, drainage systems and street lighting installations will be carried out promptly to ensure safe and convenient usage of the bridge. Necessary safety checks and final inspections will also be conducted before opening the facility to traffic.
Boost to Urban Connectivity
The new over-bridge is expected to significantly improve traffic flow between Khamhardih, Kachna and adjoining areas, which have witnessed rapid urban expansion in recent years. With the elimination of the level crossing bottleneck, commuters will be able to travel without waiting for railway gate closures.
Authorities believe the project will not only reduce traffic congestion but also enhance road safety and transport efficiency, particularly during peak hours.
With construction now in its final stage, officials indicated that the long-awaited infrastructure project is likely to be opened to the public soon, marking a major step toward strengthening urban mobility in Chhattisgarh’s capital city.
