Why Indore’s Bada Ganpati flyover may not be ready by 2028

The Bada Ganpati flyover project in Indore has faced a major delay. A large underground sewer line is blocking the way, and it’s taken two years to get approval to shift it. This delay now puts the 2028 deadline in doubt.

A 1400 mm-wide primary sewerage line runs right under the flyover’s planned central pillars. This line is about 30 feet deep and passes through the entire median. The foundation of each bridge pillar also needs to be built 15 to 20 feet deep. Since the line is exactly at that depth, redesigning the bridge is not an option.

After four months of back-and-forth, the Municipal Corporation has approved the plan to shift the line. The work will use trenchless and micro-tunneling technology. This method avoids open digging and helps reduce the risk of soil collapse. The total cost will be around ₹10.5 crore. The process will take 6 to 8 months and is expected to begin after the 2025 monsoon.

This sewer line isn’t the only one causing trouble. A second 1200 mm line also connects to it. Both lines handle large amounts of sewage from different parts of the city. The shifting will be difficult because of the limited space. Nearby lines may also need to be moved, adding to the complexity.

• Space is limited. There’s barely any room around the line.

• Political delays held up permissions.

• Soil collapse is a serious risk if digging is not handled carefully.

• A second 1200 mm line connects to this one, adding complexity.

The Indore Development Authority (IDA) had hoped to complete the bridge before Simhastha 2028. A tender and work order were issued in 2024. But with the line shifting work starting late 2025 or early 2026, the actual bridge work will begin much later than planned. That leaves just two years for construction.

IDA CEO Ramprakash Ahirwar confirmed that the sewer shifting has board approval and that funds will be released once final estimates are in. Municipal Commissioner Shivam Verma said the corporation is ready to start work as soon as the IDA gives the green light.

Until the sewer line is moved, construction can’t begin. And with the schedule already tight, meeting the 2028 deadline looks increasingly difficult.

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