The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has restored regular two-way traffic arrangement around Green Circle, a roundabout below the elevated corridor of Chennai - Bengaluru National Highway (NH 48) in Vellore town on Tuesday.

NHAI officials said that the traffic restrictions around the Green Circle were in place since July 12 to facilitate the second and final phase of subway work there. As the underground work of the ₹7.50-crore project was completed, NHAI opened the carriageway around Green Circle for regular traffic movement. “Restoration of traffic movement will help reduce waitinng time for motorists,” said a NHAI official.

Earlier, only light vehicles such as two-wheelers, auto rickshaws, and cars were allowed to use the service lane to proceed towards Green Circle. Other vehicles had to use the carriageway of Chennai - Bengaluru Highway. Heavy vehicles had to take a detour of at two km to reach Green Circle due to traffic diversions that was in place since July 12.

“Restoration of regular traffic movement is a great relief for motorists and pedestrians as movement of vehicles is steady and gradual. It also helps walkers cross the Green Circle safely,” said G. Sugan, a motorist. 

As the roundabout was identified as a ‘black spot’ (accident prone), NHAI decided to build a subway. The entire work will be completed before the northeast monsoon.