In a bold move to tackle future gridlock, Gurgaon's transport authorities are planning to build a double-decker viaduct. This innovative structure would stack a crucial new metro line directly on top of a planned elevated road.
A Coordinated Solution for a Critical Corridor
The Haryana Mass Rapid Transport Corporation (HMRTC) has put forward a proposal for this integrated structure. It is targeted for the stretch between Ghata Chowk and Vatika Chowk on the Southern Peripheral Road (SPR). This is precisely where the planned Sector 56 to Panchgaon metro corridor overlaps with an already approved elevated road project.
Officials warn that constructing two separate, parallel elevated structures would be a recipe for long-term problems. The city would face decades of traffic bottlenecks, visual clutter, and limited options for any future upgrades. The duplication of foundations and excessive piers would also compromise drainage and maintenance access.
Why an Integrated Structure Makes Sense
A senior HMRTC official explained that a coordinated approach is essential. The proposed design features one deck for the metro and another for the elevated road, both supported on common piers. This is seen as the most sustainable solution to preserve the corridor's functionality for the coming decades.
"An integrated double-decker solution will not only meet current transport needs but also preserve the corridor's functionality for decades to come," the official stated. The model has a proven track record in Indian cities like Nagpur, Bengaluru, Delhi, and Jaipur, where similar structures overcame severe space constraints.
Next Steps and Project Status
The proposal is currently in its early stages. HMRTC has requested a detailed technical assessment from RITES to determine the feasibility and safety of integrating both facilities into a single structure. Meanwhile, the detailed project report (DPR) for the elevated metro line is already prepared and awaiting approval.
In a related development, the state government last month cleared the way for a new flyover on the same stretch of SPR. Both the metro and the road projects are considered vital for Gurgaon's mobility. The double-decker viaduct plan aims to ensure that these crucial infrastructures complement each other rather than compete for limited urban space.
