Ghaziabad's New Link Road Faces Severe Deterioration, Residents Voice Safety Concerns
In Ghaziabad, the New Link Road, a critical arterial route that connects NH-9 with the new bus stand, metro station, and Namo Bharat Station, is currently in a state of severe disrepair. Often referred to as the lifeline of Ghaziabad, this road accommodates an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 vehicles each day, including a heavy mix of buses, trucks, and private cars. The deteriorating condition has sparked widespread alarm among local residents and commuters, who report that potholes and loose gravel are prevalent across the roadway, significantly increasing travel risks amid the dense traffic flow.
Residents Highlight Hazards and File Formal Complaints
Local inhabitants have repeatedly raised complaints about the hazardous state of the New Link Road, noting that potholes and scattered cement materials are not only present in the middle of the road but also along its edges. This poor infrastructure forces drivers to make sudden lane changes to avoid damage, elevating the potential for accidents in the already congested area. Despite numerous grievances, there has been a notable lack of corrective action, leaving the community frustrated and concerned for their safety.
NK Negi, a resident of Siddharth Vihar, has taken formal steps by writing to the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation (GMC), which holds responsibility for the road's maintenance. In his complaint, Negi emphasized the urgent need for the GMC to fill the potholes and remove debris, stating, "The GMC is responsible for the maintenance of this road, and residents are demanding that potholes and other cement materials be filled and removed. I have filed a complaint regarding this." This action underscores the growing public demand for immediate repairs to restore safe passage.
Commuters Describe Daily Struggles on the Road
Arun Singh, a regular commuter on the stretch, provided a detailed account of the challenges faced by daily users. He explained, "In many places, there are deep potholes in the middle and on the roadside. At some places the gravel has come out, causing problems for those using this road because people change lanes suddenly upon seeing potholes in the heavy traffic, which increases the risk of accidents." Such firsthand testimonies highlight how the road's condition not only inconveniences travelers but also poses a direct threat to public safety, with the potential for serious collisions due to erratic driving maneuvers.
Municipal Corporation Responds with Tender Process
In response to the mounting complaints, the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation has acknowledged the issue and initiated measures to address the road's poor state. An official from the corporation confirmed that a tender for road construction has been invited, covering the section from NH-9 to Meerut Tiraha via the Gangajal Project. The complaint has been updated on the IGRS portal, and the construction department is working to expedite the necessary repairs. This development indicates a step toward remediation, though residents await tangible improvements on the ground.
The situation on the New Link Road serves as a stark reminder of the broader infrastructure challenges in urban areas, where heavy usage and inadequate maintenance can lead to hazardous conditions. As Ghaziabad continues to grow, ensuring the safety and efficiency of key transportation routes like this one remains a critical priority for local authorities and the community alike.
