Three bridges on Shahdara drain to be widened
In April, Noida Authority had inaugurated the first bridge on Shahadra drain to provide ADB summit visitors free flow of traffic. Two parallel bridges were later constructed over the drain, in addition to the existing ones. Presently, the authority is putting efforts to get approval for widening of three bridges over the drain. As per reports, officials are directed by the Delhi irrigation and flood control department, to chart out a monthly target and expedite tender proceedings.
Currently, DND Flyway and Noida-Greater Noida Expressway help in managing the heavy flow of traffic during the peak hours and prove to be a relief to commuters shuttling between Delhi and Noida. However, at Shahdara drain, the path becomes highly congested due to the lesser width of the drain bridge.
The project will concentrate on the widening of the bridges at Sectors 16A-18, Sectors 14-14A the one, near Okhla Barrage. Segment technique is said to be employed during the construction and widening of these bridges, which would help in managing the flow of traffic in an efficient manner, causing least disruption.
Taking into consideration the increasing traffic on bridge flanks, the authority is looking into fast-tracking of the project. As per market reports, about Rs.90 crore were sanctioned for widening of the five bridges across the drain. The initial amount was released for processes like soil testing, surveys etc.
As per a Memorandum of Understanding with the Delhi government, the work would be carried forward by the Delhi government, while the funding would be done by the Noida Authority. Noida authority’s chief maintenance engineer, A K Goel informed that the authority had directed the Delhi government to work out a monthly calendar for the works to be carried out. Once the time-frame for completion is submitted, tenders would be invited and finalized, after which the construction would begin.
According to Noida Master Plan 2031, the transportation system in the city would be upgraded in a conforming manner, in order to improve the overall structure of the city and its quality of life. As part of the plan, Noida’s linkages with the city of Delhi are being upgraded and strengthened by the development of expressways and addition and widening of bridges.
Once the widening of the bridges is completed, connectivity between Noida, Greater Noida and Delhi would be enhanced significantly. The same is sure to benefit the regions around Delhi and NCR, and catalyze the growth of real estate, as developments in this areas would get to enjoy excellent connectivity to the national capital and other towns in and around.
