The Samalkha railway overbridge project in Haryana has been stuck in limbo for the past seven years, leaving commuters frustrated and facing daily traffic snarls. The project, which was initially approved to ease congestion at the level crossing, has faced multiple delays due to administrative hurdles and lack of coordination between authorities.
Project Overview
The overbridge was planned to replace the existing level crossing on the Ambala-Delhi rail route, which sees heavy traffic daily. The project was estimated to cost around Rs 50 crore and was expected to be completed within two years. However, despite several deadlines, construction has not progressed beyond the initial stages.
Reasons for Delay
Officials cite land acquisition issues and pending approvals from the Railways as primary reasons for the delay. Additionally, changes in design and contractual disputes have further stalled the work. Local residents have staged protests demanding immediate action, but authorities have failed to resolve the matter.
Impact on Commuters
The incomplete project has led to frequent traffic jams, especially during peak hours. Commuters have to wait for long periods at the level crossing, affecting their daily routines. Moreover, safety concerns have been raised due to the lack of proper infrastructure at the crossing.
Local administration has assured that efforts are being made to expedite the project, but no concrete timeline has been provided.
Way Forward
Experts suggest that a coordinated effort between the state government and Railways is needed to overcome the hurdles. Fast-tracking approvals and ensuring timely funding could help complete the project. Until then, commuters in Samalkha will have to continue enduring the inconvenience.
