Questions Raised Over Heavy Vehicle Entry into Vijayawada Despite Bypass Infrastructure

Concerns are being raised over the traffic management policy that permits heavy vehicles to enter Vijayawada city during certain hours despite the availability of a dedicated bypass corridor. The bypass, developed at an estimated cost of ₹2,700 crore, was intended to divert heavy vehicles away from the city, reduce congestion, and improve road safety. However, recent signboards indicating restricted entry only during peak hours have sparked criticism among commuters and residents.

According to the traffic regulation boards, heavy vehicles are prohibited from entering the city between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM and again from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This effectively allows their movement within city limits during afternoon hours. Citizens argue that major junctions such as Ramavarappadu, Benz Circle, Krishnalanka, the Bus Stand area, and other busy corridors already experience significant traffic congestion. They fear that allowing heavy vehicles into the city during non-restricted hours could increase travel delays, inconvenience commuters, and raise concerns over road safety.