NHAI flags safety concerns over pipeline work on Dwarka E-way

NHAI raises safety concerns over the Dwarka expressway due to GMDA's water pipeline work, warning of potential structural threats and accidents.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has again raised concerns about the safety of a portion of the Dwarka expressway, where the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) is laying a water pipeline between Elan Mall and the cloverleaf on NH48, an official said.

The NHAI said the pipeline-laying method has resulted in multiple distress manifestations, posing a threat to the structural integrity of the expressway. (Parveen Kumar/HT)

The NHAI said the pipeline-laying method has resulted in multiple distress manifestations, posing a threat to the structural integrity of the expressway.

It has sought immediate intervention to prevent any cave-in on the expressway.

Mohd Saifi, regional officer, NHAI, in a letter to GMDA on March 23, stated, “It is evident that the methodology adopted by GMDA for execution of the trenchless pipeline works does not appear to be appropriate or adequate. The same has resulted in multiple distress manifestations on the service road, thereby raising serious concerns regarding the structural integrity, long-term stability, and overall safety of the highway infrastructure.”

The NHAI warned that any sudden surface distress may potentially lead to serious accidents.

When asked about the matter, a GMDA official denied any negligence and said that almost 95% of the pipeline had been laid and that they had taken “all precautions” and “adopted safety measures” during the laying.

The official said a pipeline was already in place, but the highway authority changed the road’s alignment, necessitating a new water pipeline.

The pipeline work began last July and is crucial for the water supply infrastructure.