Hebbal flyover loop reopens but shifts traffic chaos to Baptist Hospital junction

The long-awaited reopening of the Outer Ring Road (ORR) flyover loop near Hebbal was expected to end years of congestion at the busy junction. Instead, the chaos has only shifted downstream, with fresh traffic pile-ups now reported near Baptist Hospital and extending towards Mekhri Circle.

Commuters say while vehicles from KR Puram now flow unhindered into the city, the relief at Hebbal junction is short-lived, as a new choke point has emerged right after the descent of the loop.

At the heart of the problem is the placement of a BMTC bus stop immediately after the flyover descent. Buses halting here block high-speed traffic, forcing sudden braking and risky lane changes. Vehicles cutting into the service road near the hospital further worsen the situation, creating what daily commuters describe as a “dangerous mix.”

Officials point to two major reasons for the shift:

Authorities argue that the design alone is not responsible. Many motorists prefer sticking to the flyover instead of taking alternate routes. Police officials report drivers removing barricades, flouting signals, and even engaging in road rage. 

Despite strict enforcement, including penalties and U-turn restrictions, commuters often dismiss fines as inconsequential. Officials say even a brief halt on this stretch during peak hours is enough to trigger massive traffic jams.

Residents and hospital staff near the Baptist junction warn that the issue goes beyond inconvenience. Ambulances and emergency patients are stuck in jams, delaying critical care.