The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has initiated a crucial project to permanently address the severe waterlogging that plagues the Sarita Vihar underpass every monsoon season. The authority has formulated a detailed plan to revamp the drainage system at this critical traffic point, aiming to prevent the area from turning into a pool during heavy rains.
The 60-Day Revamp Plan: Key Details
According to the official proposal, the DDA will undertake repairs along approximately 100 metres of the damaged stretch, which was severely affected during this year's monsoon. A tender has already been issued with a strict deadline to complete all work within 60 days. The scope of work is comprehensive and includes improving or replacing damaged and missing drain covers.
The tender document outlines a meticulous process. It mandates that all rubbish, including chippings, shavings, and sawdust, must be completely removed from the interior of the drains before any new concrete is laid. To facilitate the proper placement of new drain covers, the existing cemented concrete road will be cut to a required width and depth of up to 150 mm using specialised concrete road-cutting machines.
Following this, precast cover blocks set in cement mortar of the specified thickness will be procured and installed to ensure a uniform and adequate concrete cover over the drainage slab. The DDA has also committed to a clean finish, stating that after work completion, all debris and waste material will be cleared using mechanical means and transported to an approved municipal landfill site.
Residents' Plight vs. Official Claims
This intervention comes in direct response to persistent complaints from local residents. For years, they have reported that the drainage system fails catastrophically every monsoon, transforming the underpass into an impassable pool and triggering massive, long-lasting traffic jams. Residents have consistently blamed the recurring crisis on a combination of faulty initial design and poor long-term maintenance.
Their grievances extend beyond the rainy season. They point out that even on dry days, the underpass remains hazardous and difficult to use due to issues like missing slabs and persistent seepage from the sidewalls, indicating deeper structural problems.
Officials Defend Design, Cite Traffic Wear
In contrast to the residents' allegations, DDA officials have presented a different perspective. They have claimed that the underpass is currently in good condition and denied any ongoing leakage or significant road damage. An official defended the infrastructure, stating, "The underpass has been designed properly, and we repaired the road after conducting a proper survey."
The official attributed the visible wear and tear to external factors, specifically noting, "There has been heavy traffic movement on this stretch, which is why the top layer of the road gets damaged." This statement highlights the authority's view that maintenance is an ongoing requirement due to usage, rather than a result of fundamental design flaws.
The success of this 60-day drainage revamp project will be closely watched by thousands of daily commuters. Its completion before the next monsoon season will be the true test of whether the chronic waterlogging at Sarita Vihar underpass has finally been mitigated.
