M. Maheshwar Rao, Chief Commissioner of the newly formed Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), said that the Bailey bridge technique is being actively considered to ensure smooth traffic flow on stretches affected by ongoing infrastructure projects.A Bailey bridge is a portable, prefabricated modular structure, commonly used in flood-hit areas to reconnect two separated regions. In Bengaluru’s case, where ongoing infrastructure projects are disrupting traffic, the civic authority is exploring the use of such bridges to facilitate seamless movement of vehicles in affected areas.However, Mr. Rao emphasised that this is only an idea under active consideration, as the technique has certain shortcomings, despite the estimated cost of assembling one structure being around ₹5 crore.“It takes about a week to assemble, which could itself cause inconvenience. Still, we will explore the option,” Mr. Rao said, adding that a company in Kolkata manufactures these bridges. He further said that local start-ups with similar solutions would also be encouraged.Mr. Rao revealed the plan while responding to a question on potholes reappearing in the city due to poor-quality repairs.“Potholes are reappearing because of flooding and the simultaneous execution of multiple infrastructure projects. With five to six civic agencies working across the city, damage to road infrastructure is inevitable,” Mr. Rao said, stressing that filling potholes is only a temporary measure.He noted that the government has therefore planned large-scale whitetopping.“About 500 km of whitetopping has already been completed, another 500 km is in the pipeline, and the total target is about 1,500 km,” Mr. Rao said. “We are working on improving the city’s infrastructure, and people should cooperate and be patient,” he added.Mr. Rao further said that most complaints about recurring potholes are coming from areas where infrastructure projects are underway, such as Bannerghatta Road and Silk Board. He also mentioned that whitetopping work had to begin on J.C. Road, but heavy rain disrupted the project, causing further inconvenience to commuters. To address such challenges, the civic body is considering the use of Bailey bridges, he reiterated.Published - September 03, 2025 09:30 pm IST