Bangalore-Hosur flyover lateral shift: What led to the crisis? Collector flags Bengaluru's common problem; Alternate routes shared for travellers

In a major safety concern, the elevated expressway at Hosur, which connects Bengaluru and Chennai, has been closed after a dangerous sideways shift in its structure was discovered. The road was shut on Saturday night, causing massive traffic jams stretching up to 3 km near the Hosur bus stand.
What caused the damage?

District Collector C Dinesh Kumar inspected the flyover on Sunday and said the damage happened due to heavy traffic pressure on the bridge. The problem lies in the damaged bearings, parts that connect and support the structure.

According to TOI, he said, “The damaged bearings will be replaced promptly. After that, the flyover will be monitored for 48 hours. Only light vehicles will be allowed on it if there is no further damage.”

How is traffic being managed?
With the expressway closed, all vehicles going towards Bengaluru have been stopped. Officials from the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) are working on alternative routes to manage the flow.

Here’s how vehicles are being diverted:

• From Salem to Bengaluru: Rerouted via Dharmapuri, Palacode, Rayakottai and then through the Hosur ring road.
• Light vehicles from Krishnagiri: Sent through Uttanapalli from Shoolagiri to reach Sitaram Medu.
• Heavy vehicles: Diverted through Dorapalli Agraharam and Onnalwadi to the ring road.

The collector also mentioned that barriers have been installed and traffic will move in a one-way pattern to ensure safety.

Why this flyover matters

Opened in 2010, the Hosur elevated road carries nearly 50,000 vehicles every day. It’s a key link between Chennai and Bengaluru, especially important for those commuting to Electronics City, one of Bengaluru’s major IT hubs. The flyover was built to ease traffic pressure on this busy corridor.

Authorities are now working urgently to fix the issue and avoid further risks.

Inputs from TOI