In an effort to enhance Delhi's transport infrastructure and
offer commuters an alternative travel route, the Delhi government has proposed
the construction of a 20-kilometre-long elevated road over the Munak Canal,
linking Inderlok to Bawana in northwest Delhi.
Officials stated that the project, estimated to cost around Rs
30 billion, would benefit 18 assembly constituencies, two parliamentary
constituencies, and 35 municipal wards. The construction is expected to take
approximately three years from the commencement date.
The Munak Canal, a 102-kilometre aqueduct running from
Haryana to Delhi, was originally developed to reduce water losses in the
Western Yamuna Canal. It now serves as the foundation for the proposed elevated
corridor, which is aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving
connectivity across key parts of the city.
The plan was discussed in a high-level meeting chaired by
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and PWD Minister Parvesh Verma, with senior Public
Works Department (PWD) officials in attendance. Verma noted that the corridor
would significantly improve transportation for a large section of Delhi’s
population.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will be
responsible for executing the project, while the Delhi PWD will manage funding,
land acquisition, and coordination with local stakeholders. A detailed project
report (DPR) is currently being drafted and is expected to be completed within
three months. Authorities have also sought a no-objection certificate from the
Haryana government, since a portion of the canal lies within its territory.
The elevated road will integrate with the Urban Extension
Road-II (UER-II), further strengthening the city's outer ring road network and
enhancing access to the northern and western regions.
Additionally, the Delhi government is pursuing a ₹950 crore
proposal to redevelop 415 kilometres of roads under the Central Road Fund and
has plans to convert the Najafgarh drain into a 30 MW canal-top solar power
corridor.
News source: The New Indian Express