In a major step aimed at improving pedestrian safety and easing traffic congestion, the Delhi government is reviewing 60 proposals for the construction of new foot-over bridges (FOBs) across the capital. The proposals, submitted by Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), are currently under examination by chief engineers of the Public Works Department (PWD).
MLAs Respond to Govt’s Call for Traffic Solutions
The move follows an initiative by PWD Minister Pravesh Verma, who had written to all MLAs last year seeking suggestions to tackle traffic bottlenecks and improve pedestrian movement in their respective constituencies. In response to a question raised during the winter session of the Delhi Assembly, the government confirmed that 60 such proposals have been received.
Officials said these suggestions focus primarily on locations with heavy pedestrian footfall and frequent traffic congestion, where foot-over bridges could significantly improve safety and traffic flow.
Key Locations Identified Across Delhi
According to the proposals, several high-traffic and accident-prone locations have been identified for potential FOB construction. These include Azadpur Mandi Gate No. 5, Andheria Mor, Harcharan Bagh near Chhatarpur Metro Station, TB Hospital Crossing, areas opposite Qutub Minar Gate and JNU Gate, Maujpur Chowk, GTB Enclave in Nand Nagri, Rohini Sector-24, and near Nand Nagri Depot.
Officials said these locations were recommended based on traffic density, pedestrian movement, and safety concerns.
Approval Process and Joint Inspections
A senior PWD official explained that as per established procedure, joint inspections will be conducted at the proposed sites along with the traffic police. After inspection, the proposals will be placed before the PWD’s subway committee for approval. Once sanctioned, tenders will be floated to begin construction.
Night-Time Construction to Reduce Disruption
To minimise traffic disruption during construction, PWD Minister Pravesh Verma has directed that work on major infrastructure projects, including foot-over bridges, should be carried out during night hours wherever feasible.
Verma, who also heads a high-level committee on traffic management, has further asked MLAs to identify locations suitable for flyovers in their constituencies. The committee—comprising PWD officials, traffic police and transport experts—was formed to develop long-term and sustainable solutions to Delhi’s traffic problems.
Officials believe that the proposed foot-over bridges, once approved and constructed, will not only enhance pedestrian safety but also help reduce congestion at some of Delhi’s busiest junctions.L
