From Noida, a faster route to Okhla

Commuters from Kalindi Kunj and NOIDA headed towards Okhla Industrial Area would get a breather from battling the Mathura Road traffic, thanks to proposed adding of cloverleaves to the existing flyover and an underpass, reports Nivedita Khandekar.

Commuters from Kalindi Kunj and NOIDA headed towards Okhla Industrial Area would get a breather from battling the Mathura Road traffic, thanks to proposed adding of cloverleaves to the existing flyover and an underpass to reach beyond the railway line at Sarita Vihar T-point on the Mathura Road.

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The existing flyover provides a signal free commute to those traveling on the Mathura Road either way.

But for others there is a red light below the flyover which hampers the speed of vehicles and leads to congestion, especially during peak hours.

Also, lack of direct access to Okhla means a long route till Modi Mill and then taking the Maa Amritanand Mayi Marg to reach Okhla Industrial Area.

The underpass is almost 1,100 metres long, of which 200 metres portion (below the railway line) is to be constructed by the railways.

The project would cost Rs 106 crore and the Railways would be paid another Rs 31 crore for constructing its portion of the underpass.

The money for the project is to come from the Urban Development Ministry. But the budget may escalate to Rs 150 crore by the time it is completed, officials said.

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has already awarded the contract to Valecha Engineering Ltd, work for which is slated to start soon.

The plan envisages joining the Road Number 13 A (east of Mathura Road/railway line) with Road number 13 in Okhla Industrial Area (west of Mathura Road/railway line).

“This project is expected to be completed in 22 months,” the officials said adding, “However, this has got no connection with the deadlines for Commonwealth Games 2010.”

However, there are a few hurdles to be taken care of. A big headache for the officials would be removal of encroachment besides the railway line towards Road Number 13. Then there are about 15 trees that need to be cut down.

“We have already sought permission for it,” the officials added.