'Cracks' on flyovers raise alarm, officials say no threat

Ranchi: ‘Cracks' on the Kantatoli and Siramtoli flyovers have raised safety concerns among commuters, prompting quick inspection and intervention by the road construction department (RCD). These ‘cracks', seen as lines along the walls with soft material protruding in some places, led to speculation about structural flaws. However, officials clarified that these are expansion joints, a critical design feature in large concrete structures, and pose no structural threat.

"An expansion joint is a deliberate gap left between sections of concrete to allow for thermal expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. The gap is often filled with compressible materials like thermocol or foam to absorb movement. In the case of 2.24-km long Kantatoli flyover, built at a cost of Rs 224 crore, commuters observed thermocol dislodging from the joints before the Kokar ramp, which caused concern," Sunil Kumar, secretary of urban development and housing department (UDHD) and RCD, said.

"The material seen coming out is thermocol, used in expansion joints to accommodate thermal expansion of the flyover structure. These joints are not construction flaws but essential engineering provisions. The flyovers are safe," he added.

Kumar further added that engineers inspected the site and found no signs of structural damage. "The remedy involves re-inserting the thermocol and covering the joint with protective paint. There is no risk to public safety. The Siramtoli flyover, which is 2.34 km long and built at a cost of Rs 255 crore, has a 100-year design life. We have provisions for thorough maintenance every 10 years," he added.

Commuters using the Siramtoli flyover had recently flagged concerns about loose and protruding screws on a speed-breaker. On Sunday, the road construction department deployed engineers to address the issue. The screws were re-tightened and secured with industrial-grade adhesive to prevent recurrence.

"It felt risky driving over the bump with metal parts sticking out. Two-wheeler riders like me were especially worried about skidding. We're relieved the authorities took quick action," said Rajeev Sinha, a daily commuter who uses the flyover to reach Doranda from Lalpur, said.

In response to complaints about protruding nails from a speed-breaker on the Siramtoli stretch, RCD engineers carried out immediate repairs on Friday. "The screws were tightened and industrial adhesive applied to ensure they don't come loose again," said Kumar.