Five Years of Commuter Nightmare Ends as Noida Authority Intervenes
After five long years of navigating pothole-ridden roads and enduring relentless traffic congestion, thousands of daily commuters in Noida can finally anticipate some relief. The severely damaged surface road stretching beneath the newly operational Bhangel elevated corridor is scheduled for reconstruction, with the Noida Authority taking direct responsibility for the work.
Financial Dispute Halts Progress
The decision comes following an extended stalemate with the project's original construction agency, UP State Bridge Corporation Ltd (UPSBCL), which has formally declined to undertake the repair work. The corporation cites outstanding payments totaling approximately Rs 150 crore as the primary reason for their refusal to proceed.
The 5.5-kilometer surface road running under the flyover has remained in deplorable condition since construction commenced on the elevated corridor years ago. This critical artery serves multiple sectors along the Bhangel corridor, making its poor state a significant concern for regional mobility.
"We have received communication from UPSBCL stating their inability to proceed with the road work. If they are unwilling, we will seek the Board's approval to execute repair work ourselves," stated Authority CEO Lokesh M, confirming the development.
Safety Hazards and Daily Struggles
The urgency of the situation is immediately apparent to anyone traveling through Barola, Bhangel, and adjacent sectors. Years of heavy construction equipment, diverted traffic patterns, and general neglect have transformed the road into an obstacle course of potholes and uneven surfaces.
For local residents and motorists, what began as an inconvenience has evolved into a genuine safety concern. "It's not just an inconvenience, but a safety hazard. School buses and ambulances get stuck in snarls here almost every day," shared a frustrated resident of Sector 110.
The core of the deadlock lies in the financial disagreement between UPSBCL and the Noida Authority. Although the six-lane elevated road was officially handed over in August, UPSBCL maintains that substantial payments remain outstanding. These include amounts for price escalation, GST differences, and interest accrued due to delayed payments.
Legal Battle and Contractual Obligations
Despite repeated reminders, the Authority has not cleared these dues, prompting UPSBCL to approach the Allahabad High Court last September. The corporation sought the appointment of an arbitrator to resolve the financial dispute.
Consequently, UPSBCL has argued that without additional payments, it cannot reasonably be expected to complete ancillary work including service roads and drainage channels. These elements are crucial for ensuring smooth traffic movement and preventing flooding during monsoon seasons. The corporation has formally requested either release from these obligations or an additional sanction of Rs 25 crore to complete them.
Authority officials, however, maintain that UPSBCL must honor all aspects of the original agreement. "UPSBCL cannot walk away from its contractual responsibilities. Construction of service roads and drains is part of the agreement. They are bound to finish it," emphasized a senior official.
Direct Intervention and Cost Recovery
With resolution appearing increasingly unlikely through negotiation, the Authority is now seriously considering assuming direct control over the road repairs. "If we proceed, we will invoke contractual provisions to recover costs from UPSBCL, including seizing their performance guarantee," explained Vijay Rawal, DGM (civil).
For the community that has endured years of transportation difficulties, this intervention sparks hope for long-awaited normalcy. "We just want a safe, smooth road. We've waited long enough," expressed a local shopkeeper, capturing the sentiment of countless affected residents and commuters.
