Soon, negotiating around Regal Island in Bistupur, in the heart of the steel city, will be a breeze.

To try and streamline traffic at the busy junction, Tata Steel subsidiary Jusco has drawn up an elaborate widening plan to be implemented in different phases, but which would keep the greenery intact.

Triangular Park along Boulevard Road which houses the Clock Tower of Rotary International has been already closed. The area of the park is being used to widen the road for smooth traffic. The landmark Rotary Clock Tower has been relocated nearby.

As this road is being made wider and more spacious, commuters can take an easy drive towards Sakchi. Currently, the road is narrow and creates traffic hurdles. Apart from this, two new islands would come up in that area. Detachable crash barriers have also been proposed. Our experts are on the job,” said Sukanya Das, Jusco spokesperson.

Das said their objective was to make the crowded Regal Island area snarl-free and reduce mishaps.

Roads from Sonari, Kadma, Sakchi and Bistupur main road meet at Regal Island, with no less than 60,000 vehicles negotiating the roundabout. From two-wheelers and cars, to even trucks, when no-entry restrictions in the city are lifted, the island sees vehicles at all times. That’s why, Das said, they were taking utmost care to maintain the existing greenery of the area. “We are planning with responsibility. Existing plants won’t be removed. Our men are trying to protect the green cover while executing the road and island project,” she added.

Jusco went ahead with this project after consulting the district administration and based on decisions taken at a road safety committee meeting.

When told by the paper, commuters appreciated Jusco’s move.

“Road widening at this vital junction would help both motorists and two-wheeler riders avoid mishaps. I negotiate the island daily so I know how squeezed-in one feels right now,” said Anil Kumar, a Bistupur trader, who also appreciated the fact that the existing greenery would be saved during the makeover.