Noida's DSC Road Finally Set for Overhaul After Years of Neglect
In a significant development for Noida's infrastructure, the long-neglected Dadri-Surajpur-Chhalera (DSC) Road is poised for comprehensive repairs, ending nearly five years of disrepair. This move comes in response to mounting public outcry and a recent directive from air quality regulators, highlighting the urgent need for action.
A Road Left in Ruins for Half a Decade
The 5.5-kilometer stretch of DSC Road, which runs beneath the newly constructed Bhangel Elevated Road, has been a source of constant frustration for commuters. Since work on the six-lane flyover commenced in 2020, the road below has deteriorated significantly, marred by deep potholes, scattered construction debris, and extensive dust patches. Despite the elevated corridor opening to traffic in November last year, the underlying road remained untouched, forcing many to navigate narrow internal sector roads as an alternative.
Noida Authority CEO Krishna Karunesh has confirmed that repair work will now be expedited, with completion targeted by June. The project, estimated to cost approximately Rs 35 crore, will involve relaying the road surface, reconstructing the central verge, and addressing drainage issues. The Uttar Pradesh State Bridge Corporation Ltd, which was responsible for building the elevated road but had previously sought exemption from restoring the stretch below, has been tasked with executing the repairs under a tight deadline.
Public Safety and Environmental Concerns Mount
The DSC Road, traversing one of Noida's oldest markets, is currently in a hazardous state, characterized by large craters, uneven surfaces, encroachments, and piles of debris. This has rendered the road particularly unsafe during peak hours, exacerbating traffic chaos. "It was dug up for years and never repaired," lamented Brig CK Pathak (retd), a resident of Sector 49. "People diverted to internal sector roads, creating chaos. The problems have been immense."
Last month, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) conducted inspections across Noida and identified this section of the DSC Road as a major contributor to visible dust pollution. The commission issued a directive to the Noida Authority, mandating immediate remedial measures, which has injected new urgency into the long-delayed repair efforts.
Ironies and Ongoing Demands
Ironically, the Bhangel Elevated Road above, constructed at a cost of Rs 608 crore, was designed to alleviate congestion for commuters traveling from sectors 40, 41, 43, 47, 48, 49, 82, 88, 101, and 106 towards the Noida Special Economic Zone and Surajpur. It also serves residents of nearby villages, including Sadarpur, Chhalera, Aghapur, Barolla, and Salarpur. However, the absence of entry and exit loops at several points has compelled many motorists to continue using the damaged parallel road, undermining the flyover's intended benefits.
In a recent meeting on Friday, local residents appealed to Noida CEO Krishna Karunesh, demanding the installation of entry and exit loops at sectors 47y and 107. Officials have assured that these loops will be developed, addressing a key connectivity issue that has persisted alongside the road's physical deterioration.
This repair initiative marks a critical step towards improving Noida's urban infrastructure, enhancing commuter safety, and mitigating environmental impacts, as the city strives to balance development with public welfare.
