The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) has postponed the opening of the second arm of the Ragigudda double-decker flyover to the end of January 2026.

The delay has come as a surprise to many, as the flyover has looked complete and ready for use for nearly a month. Earlier, BMRCL had committed to opening the second arm by December 2025. The flyover project, which stretches for about 5 km, has been built at a cost of Rs 449 crore.

While one arm, connecting Ragigudda to HSR Layout, has been operational since July 2024 and has eased congestion at the busy Silk Board junction, the reverse arm from HSR Layout and Electronics City towards Ragigudda remains closed.

Residents turn flyover into jogging track

The delay has led to frustration among nearby residents, who say a completed public project lying unused is a waste of taxpayer money. In a lighter response, many locals have started using the unopened flyover as a morning jogging and walking track.

A local resident, while speaking to TOI, said the structure has been ready for years but access ramps are still incomplete. "At least we run over it to make use of our tax money," he said, reflecting the mood of many in the area.

Commuters feel the impact

Regular commuters have also voiced concern. A commuter who travels between Marathahalli and Bannerghatta, said the double-decker has already shown how effective it can be. He pointed out that traffic from the BTM Layout side towards Silk Board has eased, while congestion remains heavy from the HSR Layout side due to the closed arm.

According to him, opening the remaining stretch is crucial to fully decongest the junction.

BMRCL explains the delay

A BMRCL official said nearly 90 per cent of the work has been completed and assured that the flyover would open by the end of January 2026. He said heavy traffic movement on the HSR and Parappana Agrahara sides, along with restrictions on working hours, had slowed progress.

Once opened, the full double-decker flyover is expected to significantly reduce travel time and ease traffic along one of Bengaluru's busiest corridors.