NHAI Shrinks Roundabout on Chennai-Bengaluru Highway in Vellore to Enhance Safety

Fast Summary

• The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) demolished a portion of the Green Circle roundabout below the Chennai-Bengaluru Highway (NH 48) in Vellore to increase road space and prevent accidents.
• The size of the roundabout has been reduced by half, creating additional road space for motorists and improving pedestrian safety.
• this demolition is part of a ₹7.5 crore pedestrian subway project near the roundabout, expected to be completed by December 2025.
• The new subway will be 25 meters long, 5.5 meters wide, and 3 meters high with features like rainwater discharge systems, CCTV cameras, LED street lights, ramps for accessibility, steel railings for safety, and signboards.
• Key implementation goals:

– Reduced waiting time during rush hour by at least 15 minutes for motorists.
– Safer crossing facilities for pedestrians near an accident-prone spot identified as a ‘black spot’ by local authorities due to monthly averages of five to eight accidents involving walkers.

• Commuters from nearby areas such as Katpadi and Old Town are expected to benefit significantly from improved connectivity through this new facility.

Indian Opinion Analysis

the NHAI’s initiative reflects proactive measures addressing both traffic congestion and pedestrian safety concerns at one of Vellore’s most accident-prone intersections. Reducing the size of Green Circle while incorporating modern infrastructure in the new pedestrian subway could significantly enhance mobility while lowering risks for both commuters and walkers.The district police report highlighting heavy vehicle traffic-80-100 vehicles per minute during peak hours-underscores the urgency behind these upgrades.

By tackling frequent accidents classified under ‘black spots,’ such investments demonstrate how focused interventions could not onyl save lives but also improve urban transport efficiency without compromising accessibility or inclusivity (e.g., ramps designed for persons with disabilities). On completion in December 2025, these enhancements might serve as a model blueprint for similar critical junctions nationwide facing similar logistical challenges between pedestrians and high-density vehicular flow.

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