Chandigarh's Long-Pending PGIMER-PU Underpass Project Finally Moves Forward
In a significant development for urban infrastructure, the Chandigarh administration has officially announced plans to commence construction of the much-delayed underpass connecting the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) and Panjab University along the busy Madhya Marg corridor.
Six Years of Delays and Bureaucratic Hurdles Overcome
The project, which has faced numerous obstacles since its initial conception, has finally received all necessary clearances after a prolonged six-year delay period. The challenges included bureaucratic red tape, multiple design revisions, and objections from the heritage conservation committee that oversees Chandigarh's unique architectural legacy.
The project timeline reveals a complex journey:
- Initial approval granted in 2019 by then UT administrator V P Singh Badnore
- Final clearance obtained from the Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee in 2023
- Construction scheduled to begin in April 2026
- Target completion date set for December 2026
Project Specifications and Design Features
With an estimated budget of Rs 9.7 crore, the underpass represents a substantial investment in pedestrian safety and urban connectivity. The structure will be strategically located near the Sector 11/15 dividing line, creating a direct link between the two major institutions.
Key design elements include:
- Dimensions measuring approximately 15.7 metres in width and 32.77 metres in length, making it larger than the existing Sector 17 Rose Garden underpass
- Comprehensive accessibility features including ramps and lifts for wheelchair users, elderly citizens, and hospital patients
- Enhanced lighting systems for improved safety during all hours
- Provision for 12 commercial booths (reduced from an original proposal of 20 due to heritage and space considerations)
Addressing Critical Commuter Safety Concerns
The underpass is specifically designed to address the dangerous traffic conditions currently faced by thousands of daily commuters. According to official estimates, the structure will provide safe crossing for over 10,000 people each day, including:
- University students traveling between campuses
- Hospital patients and their attendants
- Medical staff and administrative personnel
- Visitors to both institutions
These commuters currently must negotiate heavy traffic on Madhya Marg, including Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) buses that regularly ferry students and visitors along this crucial route.
Current Status and Implementation Timeline
A UT official confirmed that project estimates have been finalized, with tenders set to be floated once approval is received from competent authorities. The Municipal Corporation has been assigned the critical task of shifting utilities to prepare the site for construction.
The project represents a major step forward in addressing long-standing infrastructure gaps in Chandigarh's urban landscape, particularly in areas with high pedestrian traffic between major educational and medical institutions.
