Road's Redevelopment Plan
The Delhi government's ambitious plan centers on a 7.2-kilometer segment of the Outer Ring Road, a route that faces significant daily congestion. Due to
existing residential areas, expanding the road itself is not an option. Consequently, authorities formulated an integrated redevelopment strategy, distinct from simple widening. The project's financial backing totals approximately Rs 371.75 crore. This plan includes extending the existing Modi Mill Flyover up to the Kalkaji Temple Flyover, along with the construction of two 'half flyovers.' One half flyover will be at the Kalkaji Temple intersection, while the other will be at the Savitri Cinema junction. These additions are designed to evenly distribute traffic, prevent bottlenecks at key junctions, and enhance traffic flow significantly.
Addressing Traffic Woes
This redevelopment initiative targets persistent traffic challenges, especially for those commuting to and from IGI Airport, Noida, and Gurugram. Currently, the road experiences heavy congestion throughout the day. Although flyovers are present at locations such as Games Village, Savitri Cinema, Chirag Delhi, Kalkaji, Modi Mill (Okhla), and IIT, traffic often halts at eight different signals along the route. These frequent stops contribute significantly to the overall traffic delays. The primary goal of the project is to ensure a safe and uninterrupted flow of traffic, which will lead to a reduction in congestion and a saving in both time and fuel for commuters.
Half Flyovers' Significance
A notable issue is the lack of parallel flyovers near Kalkaji and Savitri Cinema. While flyovers in these areas assist traffic headed toward IIT, those leaving IIT face serious challenges because of the absence of equivalent structures. The introduction of 'half flyovers' at strategic points seeks to rectify this imbalance. This is particularly crucial because studies have shown the pressing need to enhance capacity at Maa Anandmayi Marg, Captain Gaur Marg, and the Savitri Cinema intersection. The in-principle approval for this project was granted by UTTIPEC as early as 2017, but financial approval faced delays. The proposal was formally approved last month, during a meeting led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
Beneficiaries of the Project
This project offers numerous benefits to several South Delhi localities, including Greater Kailash, Chirag Delhi, Hauz Khas, Safdarjung, West Enclave, Kalkaji, and East of Kailash. Officials estimate that over 2 lakh vehicles use this road stretch daily, causing significant inconvenience to both local residents and long-distance travelers. The redeveloped stretch is expected to emerge as one of Delhi’s smoothest and most efficient traffic corridors if completed on schedule. The redevelopment is designed to streamline daily commutes and strengthen connections between Noida, Faridabad, Badarpur, Gurugram, and IGI Airport. With the extension of the Modi Mill Flyover up to IIT Gate, commuters should see significant improvements in their daily commutes.
