By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
PWD Minister Parvesh Verma says repairs are complete; structural assessment to determine further use of the 2009-built airport link
NEW DELHI, October 26, 2026: The Old Rao Tula Ram (RTR) flyover, a key route connecting South Delhi with Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, will reopen to light vehicles from Monday evening following the completion of repair work, Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Parvesh Verma announced.
The carriageway towards the airport from Vasant Vihar was closed on October 20 after the Delhi Traffic Police detected cracks in the road surface at two locations. A subsequent inspection revealed deteriorating concrete in the gap slab section, visible road cracks and exposed reinforcement rods. Traffic was halted as a precautionary measure to protect commuters.
“The necessary repair work has been completed, and the flyover will be reopened for light vehicles starting this evening,” Verma said after inspecting the site with senior PWD officials.
He added that a comprehensive structural audit was underway to assess the strength and long-term safety of the flyover, which was completed in 2009.
AIRPORT COMMUTERS SET FOR RELIEF
The closure disrupted traffic on one of South Delhi’s key airport corridors, forcing motorists to use the adjoining service road. The diversion led to congestion and long queues near the flyover, particularly during peak hours.
The reopening is expected to ease travel for daily commuters, airport passengers, taxi operators and residents of nearby colonies who faced longer journeys over the past week.
LIGHT VEHICLES ONLY
The flyover will initially remain restricted to light vehicles. Any decision on its further use will depend on the findings of the ongoing structural audit, which is intended to assess the condition of the 17-year-old structure and identify any additional strengthening or maintenance requirements.
Verma said the temporary closure had been necessary in the interest of public safety and that the department had acted to restore connectivity within a week.
PWD TO MONITOR STRUCTURE
The Delhi Government has reiterated that public safety remains a priority in maintaining ageing infrastructure. The PWD said the detection of cracks, immediate closure of the affected carriageway, repair work and commissioning of a detailed structural audit formed part of its approach to addressing infrastructure safety concerns.
Commuters have been advised to follow traffic advisories, comply with the light-vehicle restriction and cooperate with Delhi Traffic Police personnel deployed in the area.
The department will continue to monitor the flyover, with further updates expected after the structural audit is completed.
