Delhi Government Launches Major Flyover Projects in South Delhi to Ease Traffic Congestion
The Delhi government has officially commenced work on two significant flyover projects at key intersections in south Delhi: Modi Mill and Savitri Cinema. The foundation stone-laying ceremony for these crucial infrastructure developments is scheduled for May, marking a substantial step forward in the city's traffic management strategy.
Project Details and Scope
Awarded by the Public Works Department (PWD), the comprehensive works include the expansion of the existing Modi Mill flyover up to Kalkaji, the construction of a new flyover at the Savitri Cinema intersection, and the development of an underpass at Gagan Cinema on Mangal Pandey Marg. These structures are designed to provide signal-free movement at critical junctions, particularly at Captain Gaur Marg-Outer Ring Road and Outer Ring Road-GK-II Road.
PWD Minister Parvesh Verma emphasized that this project will offer major relief to commuters in south and southeast Delhi, addressing long-standing traffic bottlenecks. The government has set an ambitious deadline of 24 to 30 months for completion once construction begins, with Gawar Constructions appointed as the contractor.
Financial Allocation and Structural Specifications
The flyovers have been sanctioned at a combined cost of Rs 371 crore, with Rs 150 crore earmarked for the current fiscal year. PWD has prepared detailed plans to upgrade and extend these structures, ensuring they meet modern urban infrastructure standards.
The Modi Mill flyover expansion will stretch approximately 1.5 kilometers and feature:
- Six lanes with nine-meter-wide carriageways on either side
- Medians, crash barriers, and railings for enhanced safety
- Coverage of critical intersections including Captain Gaur Marg, Maa Anand Mai Marg, Lotus Temple Road, Masjid Moth Road, and the Nehru Place bus depot
At the Savitri Cinema junction, a 900-meter-long, one-way, three-lane grade separator will be constructed to tackle chronic traffic issues affecting residents of Greater Kailash I & II and CR Park. This structure will include:
- 435 meters of raised roadway
- Seamless integration with the existing flyover built in 2001
- Two ramps for efficient entry and exit
- Dedicated bus bays and redesigned junctions to enhance pedestrian safety and streamline traffic flow
Background and Additional Infrastructure
Traffic congestion has intensified on this stretch in recent years, primarily due to vehicles slowing down near the GK Enclave metro station. The second flyover was initially planned in 2016, with a basic plan approved by the Unified Traffic and Transportation Infrastructure (Planning & Engineering) Centre (UTTIPEC).
PWD officials have also been directed to construct complementary infrastructure alongside the flyovers, including:
- A service road, footpath, and cycle track
- A foot overbridge and bus shelters
- A new drainage system integrated with existing networks to prevent water stagnation
Challenges and Implementation Strategy
The project area presents several challenges, as it is crossed by numerous electrical cables (both low-tension and high-tension lines), pipelines, and a stormwater drain, which affect the ramp and box portions of the underpass. Contractors will conduct thorough surveys to identify all utility lines and existing trees that may impact construction.
A comprehensive traffic management plan will be implemented during the construction phase to minimize disruption to daily commuters and ensure public safety. This strategic approach underscores the Delhi government's commitment to improving urban mobility and addressing the growing traffic demands of the capital city.
