The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on Thursday started work on the second and final phase of the construction of a new Rs 7.5 crore pedestrian underpass under the Chennai – Bengaluru Highway (NH:48) flyover near Green Circle in Vellore.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on Thursday started work on the second and final phase of the ₹7.5 crore pedestrian subway under the Chennai – Bengaluru Highway (NH:48) flyover near Green Circle, a roundabout in Vellore.
NHAI officials said that in Phase-I, half of the new underpass has been completed. It comes near the new bus stop on the service lane of the stretch. Work has begun to complete the remainder of the new facility as part of the second phase of the multi-million dollar project.
“Once completed, the new underpass will end a detour of at least one kilometer for motorists. It will also provide safe passage for pedestrians, especially commuters from the new bus stand. The entire underpass will be ready in a few months,” an NHAI official said.
According to the plan, the new pedestrian underpass will be 25 meters long, 5.5 meters wide and three meters high. It will have excess rainwater drainage facilities, CCTV cameras, LED street lights, floodlights, notice boards and ramps for the disabled.
A steel railing will be provided to ensure the safety of pedestrians, especially seniors, women and children. “The new underpass should be completed as soon as possible as at present crossing the Green Ring Roundabout remains risky due to constant movement of vehicles,” said resident G. Suganthi.
According to a study conducted by the district police, an average of 80–100 vehicles, including government buses, ambulances, trucks, lorries and two-wheelers, pass through the Green Circle under the elevated bridge every minute, especially during peak hours.
In fact, the Green Circle is one of the identified ‘black spots’ within the Vellore Corporation limits. These black spots are emergency zones based on the reports that the police submit to the district office.
Company officials said the new underpass will help save precious lives. An average of around 10 accidents, mostly involving pedestrians, were reported around the Green Ring every month.
To facilitate the smooth progress of work for II. During the construction phase of the subway, an alternative traffic arrangement was promoted. Accordingly, only light vehicles such as two-wheelers, auto rickshaws and automobiles were allowed to use the service lane to proceed towards the green circle. Other vehicles must use the Chennai – Bengaluru Highway.
Vehicles heading towards the Green Ring Road should take a left turn towards the National Theater Roundabout where they can take a ‘U’ turn and continue on the expressway towards the new bus terminus, Katpadi, Collectorate office and Sathuvacari.
Vehicles coming from Katpadi and the new bus terminal can use the existing route near the Green Ring Road to reach the Old Town areas within the Vellore Corporation limits.
Published – 12 March 2026 21:52 IST
