Jagran Correspondent | Meerut: The construction work for the Delhi-Meerut Expressway was expected to be completed by October, authorities had said. However, most of the tasks, such as making interchanges on both sides, putting girders and soil filling, are still incomplete.
Current progress at the site indicates that although work has accelerated, completing the construction by December is unlikely. This fifth phase of the Delhi-Meerut Expressway offers significant regional benefits, though completion timelines have been extended beyond the initial October target.
How much work has been completed?
Some work has recently become fast-paced, with the road near the toll plaza being constructed. Ramps have been built for uphill and downhill traffic on the Churiyala and Kharkhoda-Mohiuddin routes, although asphalt work remains pending. Girders have been placed on the under-construction bridge here, and it has been connected to the expressway by filling one side with soil. However, the other side has not yet been filled with soil, Dainik Jagran reported.
The Kharkhoda-Mohiuddin road remains closed to vehicular traffic under the bridge. Meanwhile, the 14-kilometer Expressway includes planned interchanges at Lohia Nagar and Zainuddinpur; construction remains incomplete. Progress in Zainuddinpur is currently stalled due to the ongoing farmer protests. The construction work in Lohianagar is carried out at a slow pace, even as there is no such obstruction in the area.
There is a high-tension line in Talheta between Churiyala and Zainuddinpur. It was assured that it would be shifted by July 30th, but the situation remains the same. This has prevented the soil from being filled. Now, the soil will only be filled after the rains, after which the asphalt work will begin. Wherever the asphalt work has been completed, poles have been installed for cameras and signboards.
How will the Delhi-Meerut Expressway be beneficial?
The fifth phase of the expressway will serve as a connecting link to Delhi. Vehicles from Shastri Nagar, Medical, Ganga Nagar, Defence Colony, and Mawana can opt for this route to travel to Delhi. Additionally, it will also provide convenience for Mawana, Parikshitgarh, Najibabad, and Bijnor. Vehicles from Pauri in Uttarakhand will find it easier to travel to and from Delhi. Furthermore, traffic congestion on the Bijli Bamba bypass will also decrease.
The farmers' protest continues
The farmers' protest continues, demanding a slip road and addressing many issues. They have halted work on approximately one kilometre of the road. Discussions have already taken place between the farmers and the administration. However, no solution has been found yet.