Noida: The Noida Authority on Monday quietly inaugurated the city’s second clock tower near the GIP Mall, even as its view is partially obstructed by a police check post standing directly in front of it. The 75-foot structure, built at a cost of Rs 1.8 crore and inspired by the iconic Lal Chowk Clock Tower in Srinagar, was originally scheduled to be inaugurated on the city's foundation day on April 17. However, the event was deferred due to protests by industrial workers.
Inauguration Details
Anand Mohan, Deputy Director (Horticulture) of the Noida Authority, confirmed that the clock tower was ready last month but could not be opened at that time. “We have installed batteries in the clock, and it has started functioning. The main gate will remain locked for safety reasons,” he stated. The tower is now operational, though public access to the interior is restricted.
Obstruction by Police Check Post
Officials revealed that the Authority is in discussions with the police department to relocate the GIP police check post to a position behind the tower. As an interim measure, a container has already been placed at the site. Currently, the check post not only blocks a clear view of the clock tower but also impedes traffic movement on a section of the road in front of it. This has raised concerns among residents and visitors who expected an unobstructed landmark.
Urban Beautification Trend
Clock towers have become a prominent feature in urban beautification drives across Indian cities, serving as reference points at intersections and public spaces. Noida’s first clock tower, a 25-foot structure modeled on the iconic Clock Tower of Mangaluru, was inaugurated on January 1 in Sector 128 near the Hajipur underpass crossing at a cost of approximately Rs 30 lakh. The new tower aims to add to the city's aesthetic appeal, despite the current visibility issue.
The Noida Authority continues to work on resolving the obstruction, hoping to fully showcase the tower as a symbol of the city's development. For more updates on Noida, including gold and silver rates, bank holidays, public holidays, AQI, and weather, readers can refer to local resources.
