Ludhiana: The demolition of a building to widen the entrance to Bharat Nagar Chowk from Mall Road has cleared a persistent traffic bottleneck.The levelling and subsequent debris removal are expected to streamline the approach to the city’s busiest intersection. The project aims to provide a “free left turn” for motorists heading toward Jagraon Bridge, while a planned shifting of the road divider will alleviate congestion for traffic moving in the opposite direction towards Mall Road.For months, the presence of an old wall and several rooms on the site forced traffic to funnel into narrow lanes, creating significant delays at the junction. While internal walls have been reconstructed further back, work crews are still clearing the outer portion to prepare for laying asphalt.Local businessman Rahul Verma said: “It was the need of the hour to decongest this chowk. This is the city’s primary artery; people must pass through here to reach the bus stand, the DC office, and Ferozepur Road.”Ludhiana’s municipal corporation officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that the demolition phase was complete. The next stage involves shifting the dividers and paving the new road surface.Residents from nearby Civil Lines welcomed the move, noting that traffic jams at major intersections remained one of the city’s most pressing public grievances. Officials claimed to be identifying similar “quick-win” sites across the city where minor land adjustments could improve traffic flow significantly. MSID:: 130831295 413 |

