Agra Kheria Mor ROB to Close for 90-Day Structural Repairs
The Kheria Mor-Idgah Railway Overbridge (ROB) in Agra is set for a major shutdown. To ensure long-term safety and address aging infrastructure, the 56-year-old structure will undergo a 90-day closure to facilitate critical structural repairs.
A Massive ₹10 Crore Infrastructure Overhaul
The bridge has already exceeded its designated 50-year service life, making these repairs essential. The Indian Railways has planned a project estimated at ₹10 crore, which primarily involves the replacement of 12 aging girders. The authorities aim to have all maintenance work completed by January 15, 2027.
While the railway department is prepared to begin, they are currently awaiting final authorization from the local police and district administration. Applications for the closure have been submitted three times between 2025 and October 2026, but official clearance remains pending.
Impact on Train Operations and Commuters
The closure is expected to have a massive impact on both rail and road traffic. The rail section involved is a high-traffic zone, facilitating the movement of:
- 350 freight trains daily
- 300 passenger trains daily
To minimize disruption to these services, railway officials intend to carry out the heavy repair work during designated 'mega blocks'. This will allow the maintenance to proceed without completely halting the vital movement of goods and passengers.
On the road, the impact will be equally significant. It is estimated that approximately 5 lakh residents and 2 lakh vehicles will be affected by the bridge closure. Additionally, public concern has grown regarding pedestrian safety, as the closure of walkways on the bridge could pose risks to those on foot.
Traffic Diversions and Alternative Routes
To manage the expected congestion and provide relief to commuters, authorities have implemented several diversion strategies:
- The 12-Khamba railway crossing has been reopened to serve as an alternative route for local traffic.
- Heavy vehicles are being diverted through the Malpura Road-Rohta Canal-Gwalior Road corridor.
Despite these measures, significant traffic congestion is anticipated on the detour routes. Railway authorities are continuing to coordinate with the Agra Police and the Traffic DCP to ensure that the transition is managed as smoothly as possible once the final sanction is received.