Potential Transfer of Underpass Maintenance on Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway: A Closer Look

In recent developments, the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) is considering taking over three underpasses situated along the bustling Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway, according to a statement from an official source. This decision stems from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) initiating discussions with the metropolitan authority regarding the transfer of possession. Subsequently, GMDA conducted a comprehensive assessment of the underpasses, uncovering various issues such as wall cracks and seepage.

Over the past year, NHAI has persistently urged GMDA to assume maintenance responsibilities for the underpasses located at key junctions including Iffco Chowk, Signature Tower, and Rajiv Chowk. However, GMDA hesitated due to observed deficiencies within the structures. Consequently, NHAI sought guidance from the state government, leading to directives from Haryana Chief Secretary Sanjeev Kaushal during a recent meeting. Kaushal instructed GMDA officials to communicate shortcomings to NHAI for resolution before any handover proceedings. Additionally, the government will deliberate on the transfer of assets, recognizing the integral role of these structures within the national highway system.

According to GMDA’s assessment, seepage issues plague the Iffco Chowk underpass owing to inadequate drainage. Furthermore, visible cracks mar the walls and roads of all three underpasses. Additional concerns include damaged sheds and footpaths, along with non-functional escalators at Signature Tower and Iffco Chowk. A senior GMDA official emphasized the importance of addressing wear and tear through corrective measures before advancing formalities. Moreover, the decision to transfer assets lies with the government, underscoring the national significance of these structures.

Last year, NHAI’s regional officer advocated for GMDA’s assumption of underpass assets, with provisions for recording deficiencies and NHAI bearing repair costs incurred by the metropolitan authority. However, a senior NHAI official stated that they are yet to receive correspondence from GMDA regarding identified shortcomings. Despite NHAI’s insistence over the past year, GMDA’s interest in assuming responsibility has been tepid. NHAI maintains that the underpasses exhibit no significant structural issues, contending that regular maintenance can address concerns.

The evolving dialogue between NHAI and GMDA underscores the intricate dynamics of infrastructure management and jurisdictional responsibilities. As stakeholders navigate these discussions, ensuring the safety and efficiency of critical transportation infrastructure remains paramount. Stay tuned for further updates on this significant development impacting the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway corridor.

It seems that there is a situation regarding the transfer of maintenance responsibility for three underpasses located on the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway from NHAI to GMDA. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

  1. NHAI’s Request: NHAI has approached GMDA to take over the possession of three underpasses (at Iffco Chowk, Signature Tower, and Rajiv Chowk) on the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway.
  2. Assessment by GMDA: GMDA conducted an assessment of the underpasses and found several faults, including cracks in walls, seepage, damaged sheds and footpaths, and non-functional escalators.
  3. NHAI’s Stance: NHAI has been requesting GMDA to assume maintenance responsibility for the underpasses for over a year. NHAI claims that the structures don’t have major structural issues and that regular maintenance work can rectify any problems.
  4. GMDA’s Response: GMDA was initially reluctant to take over maintenance due to deficiencies in the structures. However, after assessing the faults, GMDA has asked NHAI to rectify the issues before the handover process can proceed. The government will also make a policy decision regarding the transfer of assets since the structures are part of the national highway.
  5. Current Status: NHAI claims that they have not yet received the letter from GMDA regarding the identified shortcomings. The transfer of maintenance responsibility seems to be pending due to the need for NHAI to address the identified faults.

Overall, the situation appears to involve negotiations between NHAI and GMDA regarding the transfer of maintenance responsibility for the underpasses, with GMDA highlighting structural deficiencies that need to be addressed before the handover can take place.