Commuters demand closure of Tarnaka signal amid traffic delays

Hyderabad: Commuters in Hyderabad are urging authorities to immediately close the traffic signal recently reopened under the Tarnaka Flyover, citing increased congestion and delays, particularly affecting emergency vehicles.

The signal, which had remained closed for nearly a decade, was reopened on April 18, 2025, by the Hyderabad Traffic Police as part of an 18-day trial to study traffic patterns between Osmania University and Lalapet. Since then, motorists have reported significant delays, with vehicles, including ambulances, getting stuck in traffic for extended periods.

Many residents say the decision has disrupted what was previously a smoother commute. “We used to cross the flyover in two minutes. Now it takes 15 minutes because of the traffic jam,” said a commuter.

Social media platforms have seen a surge in complaints. “Immediately close Tarnaka signal… 15–30 minutes of traffic jam because of that signal. There used to be no traffic jam when it was closed,” wrote Karthik, a local resident, on X (formerly Twitter). Another user, AdityaWarangal, questioned, “They closed it due to traffic jams earlier… why reopen it now?”

Immediately close Tarnaka signal.. which is opened recently
15-30 mins of traffic jam because of that signal
There used to be no traffic jam when that signal remained close
Don't know why you have opened that signal@CYBTRAFFIC @HYDTP @hyderabadpolice @hydcitypolice

— Karthik ✌️ (@paala_kova) April 21, 2025

Others echoed similar frustrations. “It’s a nightmare to have the signal open. The U-turn to the metro station is causing major problems,” said one resident. SS Sagar also commented online, calling it the “worst decision ever.”

Under the current trial route plan:

Allowed routes:

• From Osmania University: Vehicles can go straight towards Lalapet or turn right towards Habsiguda.
• From Lalapet: Vehicles can proceed straight towards Osmania University or turn right towards Mettuguda.

Restricted routes:

• From Mettuguda: Vehicles cannot turn right towards Osmania University. Instead, they must go towards Huda Complex, take a U-turn at Tarnaka, and then turn left.
• From Habsiguda: No right turn towards Lalapet is permitted. Vehicles must continue towards IRISET, take a U-turn, and then turn left at Tarnaka.

As the trial phase ended on May 2, residents are now requesting the traffic department to take note of public feedback and permanently shut down the signal to restore smoother flow at the junction.