Marathahalli bridge trail diversions cause longer detour struggles for commuters

Trial traffic diversions at Marathahalli Bridge ease congestion but force longer detours, leaving two-wheeler riders and locals facing delays and bottlenecks

Traffic diversions introduced on a trial basis at the Marathahalli Bridge Junction have disrupted daily travel for two-wheeler riders and local residents. The changes, implemented to ease congestion caused by ongoing metro construction, have significantly altered commuting patterns for those travelling from Devarabeesanahalli and Kadubeesanahalli.

Under the new plan, vehicles coming from Devarabeesanahalli and Kadubeesanahalli via the KLM Service Road are no longer permitted to turn right towards Varthur or Whitefield at the bridge. In addition, the median at Tulsi Theatre Junction has been closed, cutting off a key access point to nearby markets and service roads. Vehicles approaching from Marathahalli have also been restricted from taking a U-turn at Doddanekundi Junction, further complicating local connectivity.

Alternative routes have been outlined to manage the diversions. For commuters heading towards Varthur or Kundalahalli, the suggested path is to remain on the Outer Ring Road, take a U-turn at Karthik Nagar Junction, and then use the Kalamandir Service Road to reach Varthur Main Road. Those travelling towards KR Puram from Marathahalli or Kundalahalli must turn right at Doddanekundi Main Road Junction, proceed towards Karthik Nagar, and rejoin the Outer Ring Road.

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While the diversions have reduced congestion at the main junction, they have created longer detours for two-wheeler riders, often adding nearly two kilometres to their journey. The Karthik Nagar U-turn has become a bottleneck, with buses and cabs forming long queues that slow down traffic flow. Local residents have also expressed frustration, as the closure of the Tulsi Theatre median has limited access to markets and stranded service road users.

Authorities maintain that these changes are necessary to accommodate metro construction along the Blue Line, which continues to reduce road width in the area. Traffic officials are monitoring the situation closely, collecting data to assess the impact of the diversions and identify possible refinements. The trial phase is expected to guide long-term adjustments aimed at balancing construction needs with commuter convenience.

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