In a significant move to tackle persistent traffic gridlock, the Delhi government's Public Works Department (PWD) has announced plans to construct a flyover or an underpass at the notoriously busy Janakpuri Pankha Road crossing in West Delhi.
Feasibility Study and Project Scope
The department has granted a financial sanction of Rs 2 crore to appoint consultants for a detailed feasibility study. These experts will analyze the stretch's traffic patterns, congestion causes, and vehicle volume. Based on their report, a final decision will be made on whether to build a flyover from DESU Colony to Janakpuri D-Block or an underpass.
Officials highlighted that the Pankha Road crossing is a critical junction for residents of Janakpuri and adjoining localities. It serves as a major connector from West Delhi to New Delhi and Delhi Cantonment via Cariappa Marg. The road is a lifeline, providing access to IGI Airport, Dwarka, Najafgarh, Delhi Cantonment, Dhaula Kuan, Hari Nagar, and Tilak Nagar.
Addressing Long-Standing Neglect
Education Minister and local MLA Ashish Sood stated that the area had been neglected for over a decade by the previous administration. He affirmed that the current government is prioritizing decongestion efforts. The traffic woes are exacerbated by illegal encroachments and parking, causing massive jams that force commuters onto smaller colony roads, clogging them further.
The PWD has ordered a detailed project report following the feasibility study. Minister Sood had reviewed the situation last year and directed officials to resolve the residents' commuting challenges.
Parallel Infrastructure Repair in East Delhi
In a related infrastructure push, the PWD is also planning major repairs for the Seelampur flyover in East Delhi at an estimated cost of Rs 17 crore. Built in 2000, the flyover is now in poor condition, with visible cracks and weakened expansion joints that significantly slow down traffic, according to officials.
These twin initiatives in West and East Delhi underscore a focused approach to upgrading the city's aging and overburdened road network, aiming to provide relief to daily commuters.
