The Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) has allocated ₹1.97 crore for a comprehensive feasibility study into a proposed elevated road along Aruna Asaf Ali Marg in South Delhi. This initiative aims to provide significant relief to commuters struggling with severe peak-hour traffic congestion on this vital 4-kilometer stretch.
Addressing South Delhi's Traffic Bottleneck
Aruna Asaf Ali Marg is a critical arterial link, connecting the Mehrauli-Mahipalpur Road to the Outer Ring Road. It passes through key areas such as Vasant Kunj, Kishangarh, and the Qutub Institutional Area. The corridor experiences heavy daily vehicular movement, serving as a primary access route to Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and several other prominent national institutions, including the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), the Inter-University Accelerator Centre (IUAC), and the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR).
The PWD's feasibility assessment will delve into various crucial parameters to determine the project's overall viability. This includes detailed technical specifications, financial projections, an analysis of traffic flow dynamics, and a thorough evaluation of potential environmental impacts. The formal disbursement of funds will pave the way for preliminary groundwork to commence.
Part of a Wider Infrastructure Overhaul
This proposed elevated road project is integral to a broader infrastructure push by the Delhi government. The ambitious plan seeks to transform critical urban bottlenecks into "model corridors" – designed to be dust-free, green, and highly accessible for pedestrians.
In a review meeting held in May, chaired by Lieutenant Governor TS Sandhu and attended by representatives from road construction agencies and the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), five major high-density routes were specifically earmarked for comprehensive redevelopment. Beyond Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, these identified stretches include:
- Minto Road-ITO-Karkardooma
- Minto Road-Aruna Asaf Ali Marg-Jawaharlal Nehru Marg–Delhi Gate
- Netaji Subhash Marg-Shanti Van-Mahatma Gandhi Marg (Yamuna riverfront)-ITO-IP Estate Metro Station Corridor
- Dhaula Kuan to Jail Road (South Delhi)
- Cariappa Marg to Tilak Nagar Roundabout, and Najafgarh Road from Uttam Nagar–Tilak Nagar to Rajouri Garden (West Delhi)
Sources from the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) indicate that once completed, these redeveloped transport corridors are envisioned as 24-hour active zones. They will incorporate advanced dust control measures, extensive green cover, dedicated pedestrian walkways, and recreational amenities. Furthermore, robust storm-water drainage systems will be integrated to effectively prevent waterlogging, enhancing the city's resilience against heavy rainfall.