The completion of the Bhairon Road Underpass in Delhi, initially planned for December 31, has been postponed due to pollution-related work stoppages. Now expected to be operational by February or March next year, the underpass is seen as a crucial development to ease traffic congestion and reduce travel time for commuters on the Ring Road, particularly between Rajghat, Yamuna Par’s Laxmi Nagar, and Bhairon Marg.
Key Takeaways
- Project Delays and Challenges: Initially scheduled to open last December, the underpass has faced multiple postponements due to challenges like flooding and pollution. The work has been particularly challenging due to its location under a busy railway line.
- Innovative Construction Techniques: To overcome the difficulties posed by the terrain and the July floods, the Public Works Department (PWD) has adopted new methods. The project involves the use of box pushing technique, which is less invasive as it requires minimal excavation.
- Box Pushing Technique: This technique involves pushing reinforced cement concrete boxes using hydraulic jacks, a method that is more efficient and less disruptive compared to traditional excavation.
- Traffic and Commute Benefits: Once operational, the underpass will significantly reduce the distance and time for commuters traveling between ITO and Bhairon Road. Currently, a detour of approximately 2.5 kilometers is necessary, causing delays and traffic congestion.
- Signal-Free Connectivity: The completion of the underpass is expected to create a signal-free corridor between Kashmiri Gate and Sarai Kale Khan, enhancing the flow of traffic and reducing travel time on this busy route.
- Ongoing Work and Future Plans: Despite the delays, the PWD remains committed to completing the project. The plan is to open two lanes of the underpass by December and gradually make the rest operational, while work on the remaining sections continues.
- Improvement in Traffic Management: The underpass is expected to alleviate the chronic traffic jams at key points along the Ring Road, especially near petrol pumps and U-turns, which currently cause significant delays.
Conclusions for you.
The Bhairon Road Underpass project, despite its delays and challenges, is a significant step towards improving traffic flow and reducing commute times in one of Delhi’s busiest areas. The innovative construction techniques and strategic planning promise to make this underpass a key component in enhancing Delhi’s transportation infrastructure.