The ongoing West Asia conflict has triggered a global bitumen shortage, stalling the construction of a crucial road that would improve connectivity between Chandigarh and Panchkula. The Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) has confirmed that work has been halted due to the unavailability of bitumen, a key binding agent for asphalt roads.
Supply Chain Disruption
HSVP executive engineer NK Payal stated, "The work has been halted as we are not getting bitumen. Even if we are getting it, it is very costly, and on the order of five trucks, we are getting only one. So, we hope things get normalised soon, following which the work will be restarted."
The West Asia conflict, involving major oil-producing nations in the Gulf and Iran, has caused severe supply chain disruptions. Bitumen, a byproduct of specific crude oils heavily produced in these regions, has seen massive price surges and shortages globally, affecting thousands of road construction projects.
Project Details
The road is being built from near the regulatory end of Sukhna Lake to near IT park-Dolphin Chowk. Officials report that of the 1.59 km stretch, less than 1 km remains to be completed. The road from the Dolphin Chowk side is already built, but further ahead there is a dead end. Many commuters, noticing the wide and open road, take this route only to find it incomplete. There is no information board warning of the dead end, causing confusion.
Tricity resident Yogeshwar Yadav shared his experience: "I had to go towards Sukhna Lake, I found this beautiful road near Dolphin Chowk and thought it must be ready. After some distance, I had to come back. The HSVP should put up boards guiding commuters that the road is still under construction."
Previous Delays and Future Plans
The road was originally scheduled for completion in late last year but was previously halted due to winter weather, which is not conducive for construction. Now, the bitumen shortage has completely stalled the project.
Once completed, this road will not only improve connectivity between Chandigarh and Panchkula but also spur development in sectors 2, 3, and 4. According to the Panchkula development plan, numerous projects including independent houses, group housing societies, shopping complexes, and parks are planned along this stretch. The road is expected to boost the property market and overall development in the area.
