After months of traffic chaos, the Lohapul underpass near Cotton Market has finally reopened on one side, offering significant relief to thousands of daily commuters in central Nagpur. The partial reopening marks an important step toward restoring normal traffic movement in one of the city’s most congested stretches.
For several months, the underpass had been shut due to repair, reconstruction, and drainage-related work—causing long queues, diversions, and daily delays for office-goers, traders, and students.
Why the Reopening Matters
1. Major Decongestion for Cotton Market Area
The Cotton Market intersection is a high-traffic zone connecting Gandhibagh, Sitabuldi, Central Avenue, and Itwari. The closed underpass had pushed all vehicles onto surface roads, creating massive bottlenecks.
2. Smoother Flow Toward Central Nagpur
With one side opened, vehicles heading toward the city center now have a direct and faster route.
3. Relief for Traders & Transporters
Cotton Market is a commercial hub with heavy goods movement. The underpass reopening helps reduce:
- Delivery delays
- Fuel wastage
- Transit congestion
4. Better Connectivity for Students & Office-Goers
With schools, colleges, and offices nearby, thousands rely on this route daily. The reopening cuts travel time significantly during peak hours.
What’s Still Pending?
While one side is open, the other half of the underpass is still under construction. Remaining work includes:
- Final road surfacing
- Improved drainage
- Structural finishing
- Safety railings and signage installation
Officials expect full restoration in a phased manner over the coming weeks.
Citizen Response
Local residents and commuters have welcomed the move, noting that even partial access has noticeably eased traffic pressure across nearby junctions.
Regular commuters reported:
- Shorter waiting times
- Less congestion at Cotton Market Square
- Smoother flow toward Central Avenue and Gandhibagh
