Delhi's Barapullah Phase III Opens After Years of Delays

Delhi's Barapullah Phase III elevated corridor has officially opened, establishing a much-anticipated signal-free link between Mayur Vihar Phase I and Sarai Kale Khan. This development aims to significantly enhance connectivity between East and South Delhi, with projections suggesting travel time to AIIMS could be cut from approximately 35-40 minutes to around 15 minutes.

The project, which commenced construction in 2015 after its 2014 approval, experienced multiple setbacks including land acquisition issues, tree clearances, riverbed work, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, its completion was delayed from the original 2017 target, and the revised cost has climbed to approximately Rs 1,635 crore from an initial estimate of Rs 1,260 crore.

A key engineering feat is the bridge spanning the Yamuna floodplain, designed with substantial pillar spans to minimize environmental impact. Beyond its core function for motorists, the corridor incorporates a dedicated cycle track and pedestrian-friendly features, aligning with sustainable transportation goals.

The newly opened stretch connects with the existing Barapullah corridor, extending the combined elevated route to nearly 9 kilometers. The project's completion signifies a major infrastructure upgrade for the city, strengthening its road network and integrating facilities for diverse modes of transport.