Delhi's Pragati Maidan Tunnel Project Delayed Due Floods
The project's delay has significant implications for Delhi's traffic management, and the government's efforts to find a solution and resume work are crucial to alleviating congestion near Pragati Maidan. With the proposed construction method and safety measures in place, the tunnel is expected to provide a safe and efficient alternative route for commuters.
The ambitious tunnel road project connecting Pragati Maidan to Ring Road in Delhi has been delayed due to structural damage caused by the 2023 floods, with three of the ten boxes in the 800-meter-long tunnel tilting due to soft soil conditions.
The project's completion is complicated by its proximity to New Delhi Railway Station, requiring approvals from multiple ministries. The Public Works Department Minister, Parvesh Sahib Singh, visited the site and stated that the government is waiting for the Centre's approval to resume work on the remaining section of the Pragati Maidan tunnel, which will connect Bhairon Marg with Ring Road.
The tunnel aims to reduce traffic congestion near Pragati Maidan by providing an alternative route for commuters. Construction was halted in 2023 due to engineering challenges and flooding, and the government has consulted top institutions to find a viable solution. The proposed cast-in-situ construction method will minimize ground risks and avoid disturbing the nearby railway tracks.
Upon receiving approval, the government plans to resume work after the monsoon season, with a focus on ensuring safety guidelines and restrictions on vehicle types due to reduced tunnel height. The completion of the project will provide much-needed relief to commuters and help reduce traffic congestion in the area.