Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Inaugurates Munak Canal Rejuvenation and Announces Major Elevated Road Project
In a significant move to enhance urban infrastructure and religious facilities, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the comprehensive rejuvenation of the Munak Canal. The ambitious project, announced during a public gathering at Shalimar Bagh, includes the construction of an elevated road estimated to cost Rs 5,000 crore, aimed at alleviating chronic traffic congestion in northwest Delhi.
Holistic Development with Focus on Traffic Relief and Religious Hub
Addressing the attendees, Chief Minister Gupta emphasized that the initiative extends beyond mere canal cleanup. The Munak Canal, which has languished in a dilapidated and unhygienic state for years, will undergo a thorough transformation. This includes comprehensive cleaning, beautification efforts, and the installation of permanent Chhath ghats to cater to devotees, particularly from the Purvanchal community.
The elevated road component is a cornerstone of the project, designed to connect Inderlok Metro Station with Urban Extension Road-II. This strategic link is expected to provide substantial relief from traffic congestion on internal roads, ensuring smoother vehicular movement towards Rohini and other outer Delhi areas. Gupta highlighted that the project targets holistic regional development, underscoring the government's commitment to completing long-pending infrastructure upgrades.
Key Features and Expected Benefits
The rejuvenation plan encompasses multiple facets to improve civic amenities and public spaces:
- Cleaning and Beautification: The canal will be cleaned by removing accumulated sludge and waste, with arrangements to ensure a consistent flow of clean water.
- Chhath Puja Infrastructure: Permanent concrete steps will be constructed on both sides of the canal, specifically for Chhath Puja rituals.
- Green Spaces and Parks: Landscaped parks, trees, and green areas will be developed to enhance the environmental appeal.
- Service Roads and Safety: Service roads on both sides will feature proper paving, footpaths, solar lighting, and safety measures to boost mobility and security.
- Connectivity Improvements: A new road along the canal, widening of the Singalpur Bridge, and construction of a new double-lane bridge near Singalpur Bridge will improve traffic flow between Pitampura and Shalimar Bagh, enhancing access to the Outer Ring Road.
- Boundary Wall Development: A precast RCC boundary wall with lighting, seating, and greenery will be installed from the Outer Ring Road to Inderlok Metro Station.
Once completed, the area is anticipated to evolve into a major religious and cultural hub, attracting lakhs of devotees and daily visitors for walks and recreational activities. The project is slated for completion before the next Chhath Puja, enabling safe and clean prayer offerings.
Widespread Impact on Northwest Delhi Residents
The initiative is set to benefit residents across several key localities, including:
- Shalimar Bagh
- Pitampura
- Keshavpuram
- Netaji Subhash Place
- Punjabi Bagh
- Kohat Enclave
This infrastructural boost aims to address long-standing civic issues while fostering community engagement and environmental sustainability.
Political and Official Presence at the Event
The foundation stone-laying ceremony witnessed the presence of notable dignitaries, including Chandni Chowk MP Praveen Khandelwal, cabinet minister Pravesh Sahib Singh, Wazirpur MLA Poonam Bhardwaj, and senior officials from the Irrigation and Flood Control Department. Their participation underscores the collaborative effort behind this transformative project for Delhi's northwest region.
