The Difference Between Underpass, Overpass, and Flyover, Let's Understand!
An underpass is a term used to name a traffic route that is in the form of a tunnel and built underground. So, is an underpass the same as an overpass and a flyover? If different, what are the differences? For more details, please pay attention to the following review.
What is an Underpass?
As explained earlier, an underpass is a traffic route in the form of a tunnel built underground. An underpass is usually constructed beneath a railway crossing. The construction of an underpass is intended to alleviate traffic congestion, thereby increasing time efficiency.
Differences Between Underpass, Overpass, and Flyover
In addition to underpasses, there are also overpasses and flyovers, which both serve the function of addressing congestion. So, is an underpass the same as an overpass and a flyover? The answer is no. So, what are the differences among the three? For more details, please pay attention to the following review.
1. Terminology
From a terminology perspective, the three have significant differences. The term underpass is used to name an underground tunnel built as a traffic route. Meanwhile, the terms overpass and flyover are used to name elevated roads.
Although the terms overpass and flyover have the same meaning, their usage still has differences. The term overpass is usually used in the United States, while the term flyover is typically used in the United Kingdom.
2. Purpose of Construction
The next difference can be seen from the purpose of construction. An underpass is built underground so that it does not interfere with the traffic function above ground. In contrast, overpasses and flyovers are built elevated so that they do not touch the ground.
Functions of Underpass, Overpass, and Flyover
After understanding the differences among the three, you need to know the specific functions of underpasses, overpasses, and flyovers. The complete functions are as follows.
1. Solution to Congestion
The main function of building underpasses, overpasses, and flyovers is to address heavy traffic and alleviate congestion.
Read Also: Important, Tips for Traffic Jam on Inclines
2. Time Efficiency
The second function is that it can make travel estimates more efficient. This is because vehicles can move smoothly without congestion or waiting in line like at intersections.
3. Separating Traffic Flows
As previously explained, both underpasses, overpasses, and flyovers are intentionally built to enhance travel efficiency. Therefore, all three are constructed separately from traffic flows.
4. Minimizing Accident Risks
Because they are built separately from existing traffic flows, both underpasses, overpasses, and flyovers can minimize the risk of accidents.
5. Solution to Geographical Problems
The construction of flyovers allows road users to bypass geographical obstacles such as railway tracks and rivers. As elevated roads, flyovers do not disrupt the traffic conditions on the surface of the road.
6. Solution to Weather Conditions
The construction of underpasses serves to address issues related to weather conditions such as snow or rain. During the snowy season, traffic conditions often become paralyzed because snow covers the road surface area.
Meanwhile, during the rainy season, road conditions can be threatened by flooding. With the existence of underpasses, traffic can flow smoothly as vehicles can pass through the tunnel without the hindrance of floods or snow accumulation.
7. Enhancing Urban Aesthetics
The presence of underpasses, overpasses, and flyovers can also enhance the aesthetic value of a city, making it an attraction in itself.
Thus concludes the review regarding underpasses and their differences from overpasses and flyovers. Although all three types of infrastructure can reduce the risk of accidents, you must remain vigilant while driving.
To ensure safety and comfort while driving, you need to perform regular maintenance and servicing of your vehicle at the official Daihatsu workshop.
