A viral video from Nagpur reveals an under-construction flyover beam slicing through a residential building’s balcony in the Ashok Nagar areain Nagpur, Maharashtra. The flyover is part of the ₹998 crore Indora-Dighori corridor project developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
Officials stated that the balcony is an unauthorised encroachment, outside approved construction space, and the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has been asked to remove it. The house owner claims the beam does not touch the building and there is no safety risk. The incident has stoked debate on urban planning oversight and infrastructure alignment in densely packed city areas.
Flyover and Balcony Nexus: Eyewitness Views and Official Positions
The Indora-Dighori flyover, spanning roughly 9 kilometres, aims to improve connectivity across key parts of Nagpur by facilitating smooth traffic flow. The viral footage captures the flyover’s large beam passing about 14 to 15 feet above the balcony of a 150-year-old house owned by the Patre family at Ashok Square.
While NHAI officials labelled the balcony an encroachment and confirmed they had informed NMC to take action, the family insisted the beam poses no threat. Pravin Patre, a family member, told the media that the beam passes through a part of the balcony that lacks utility and that construction was done keeping safety in mind. NMC officials are reviewing the lease status of the property to decide the next steps.
Urban Planning, Legal Ambiguity, and Public Reaction
The situation reflects broader challenges in urban development, especially regarding land-use clarity and heritage property preservation amid expanding infrastructure projects. The Patre family’s home, part of government-leased Nazul land in a notified slum zone, reportedly received a 15-day eviction notice.
However, local authorities acknowledged delays and confusion in addressing the encroachment flag raised by NHAI nearly a year ago. The case has ignited discussions about procedural gaps in approving and executing infrastructure while safeguarding residents’ safety and livelihoods, particularly for those inhabiting historic constructions in commercial areas.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This unusual instance exemplifies the tension between urgent urban infrastructure growth and respecting residents’ rights and heritage. Development must be transparent, inclusive, and cognisant of people living amidst rapid change.
Authorities should prioritise clear communication and proactive resolution of conflicts around land use. The Logical Indian advocates for empathetic urban governance that harmonises progress with human dignity and safety.
