Upper Dwarka eway link set for revamp in Gurgaon

Gurgaon: Commuters travelling to Upper Dwarka Expressway and sectors 112, 113 and Bajghera may get smoother connectivity, with GMDA planning to overhaul the master road in Outer Sector 114. The road has been in a dilapidated condition for nearly six years, causing hardship for residents and daily commuters.The authority has invited bids for the construction of service roads, footpaths and cycle tracks. Besides, rainwater harvesting structures and greenbelts on both sides will also be developed. The tender for the Rs 9.8-crore project — expected to be completed within one year from the award of the contract — was floated last week.Additionally, the redevelopment of the 750-metre main carriageway is also moving ahead, with financial bids open and awaiting final approval from GMDA's CEO before the work can be allotted to the agency. One of the carriageways has become virtually non-motorable due to deep potholes and extensive surface damage. The deteriorated stretch and loose dust have made commuting difficult for the residents.The road was developed by HSVP over a decade ago and handed over to GMDA in 2018. In 2021, the authority proposed repairs, but the project did not materialise. The redevelopment plan was revisited in June 2023 but was subsequently put on hold as traffic movement on the stretch was considered low at the time. However, with the road condition worsening further, authorities revived the proposal and invited bids in March this year.The reconstruction work is estimated to cost Rs 7.8 crore and is expected to be completed within eight months after the contract is awarded. “We are in the process of finalising the agency and awaiting CEO's approval on the same. The work will be started once the project is awarded,” a GMDA official said. The entire project will cost GMDA over Rs 17 crore.Under the project, the existing carriageway will be strengthened and resurfaced to improve riding quality. A central verge crash barrier will also be installed to enhance road safety. Along with this, a surface drain will be constructed on both sides of the road to improve stormwater management and reduce the chances of waterlogging. Road furniture and other traffic safety infrastructure will also be installed along the stretch.“We are strengthening the road infrastructure network in Sector 114 to improve connectivity and enhance the overall commuting experience for residents. The proposed development works, including the construction of master roads, service roads, footpaths, cycle tracks and stormwater drains, will significantly improve accessibility, road safety and ease of movement for residents in the area,” the GMDA official said.Meanwhile, general secretary of Tata La Vida RWA Kshitij Sharma said, “The redevelopment of this road is much needed as it will make access to upcoming commercial hubs easier. At present, the stretch is in a poor condition, with damaged portions, dust and water accumulation during rains. A proper road network with drains and supporting infrastructure will not only improve commuting but also reduce safety and hygiene concerns associated with neglected and secluded stretches.”“Once constructed, this road will provide an alternative route parallel to Najafgarh-Bajghera Road, which gets narrowed towards Delhi and faces frequent congestion during peak hours as buses also ply on that route. It will not only provide a link to Delhi through Upper Dwarka Expressway but will connect different sectors 108, 109 and further down to Sector 99. Once improved, it will ease traffic pressure and offer better connectivity to adjoining sectors,” said Karambir Singh, a resident of Tata Gurgaon Gateway.