Hyderabad:The Moula Ali road overbridge (ROB), which is in deteriorated condition, is set to get a new lease of life as the government on Wednesday accorded administration sanction of Rs 8.5 crore for the restoration of the structure. The move follows a Malkajgiri Municipal Corporation inspection, which reported that the bridge that was constructed about 18 years ago developed issues, including gaps in expansion joints, exposed pavement steel, which were posing risk to commuters besides resulting in traffic congestion during peak hours. Based on the structural study, the consultant recommended replacing bearing pads, repairs to expansion joints, treatment of potholes and patches on the riding surface. Anti-carbonation coating for reinforced concrete members, repairs to corroded structural members, replacement of drainage spout grates, footpath repairs, painting of kerbs and railings, and provision of downtake pipes have also been recommended. The bridge connects major areas such as Moula Ali Industrial Area, ECIL, Tarnaka, Kushaiguda and AOC roads, and carries heavy traffic throughout the day.