Noida Set to Launch Major Infrastructure Projects After Multiple Delays and Cost Overruns

oida is set to unveil two major infrastructure projects within the next two months, following several delays and cost escalations that have marred their progress. The Noida authority has announced the upcoming inaugurations of the new administrative headquarters in Sector 96 and the Bhangel Elevated Road, which are expected to enhance connectivity and improve the region’s infrastructure significantly.

The Bhangel Elevated Road, in particular, is one of the most anticipated projects. Initially approved in 2013, this six-lane elevated road was launched in 2020 with a projected budget of ₹468 crore. However, the project has faced multiple hurdles along the way, including delays and structural modifications that led to an increase in costs, bringing the final expenditure to ₹608 crore.

Lokesh M, the Chief Executive Officer of the Noida authority, addressed the issues surrounding these projects. He mentioned that despite missing several deadlines, the authority was committed to completing both projects within the next two months. According to him, the final touches are being made, and staff have been directed to expedite the remaining work to ensure the projects are inaugurated on time.

Bhangel Elevated Road For Improved Connectivity

The Bhangel Elevated Road, which spans 5.5 km, is designed to connect critical areas of Noida and Greater Noida. Once operational, it will be a crucial route for commuters traveling between Agahpur and the Noida Special Economic Zone (NSEZ) in Sector 82. The road is being built above the existing Dadri-Surajpur-Chhalera (DSC) road, offering a bypass that will help avoid congested areas such as Chhalera, Barola, and Bhangel markets. This will significantly reduce travel time for daily commuters, enhancing the overall efficiency of the transportation network in the region.

The initial budget for the project was ₹468 crore, but due to delays and structural changes, including the narrowing of a 90-meter stretch because of two obstructing buildings, the costs have risen to ₹608 crore. Despite these setbacks, the elevated road is expected to bring long-term benefits by easing traffic congestion and facilitating smoother travel for residents of both Noida and Greater Noida.

The final stages of construction are underway, with the installation of nine 60-meter steel girders near the Barola Crossing set to be completed soon. Over the following month, deck slabs will be laid, marking significant progress toward the road's completion. Traffic diversions were implemented last month at Barola Crossing to ensure uninterrupted work on the elevated road.

Delays and Structural Modifications

The Bhangel Elevated Road project has faced multiple delays. The original completion deadline was December 2022, but due to unforeseen challenges, the timeline was extended to December 2023 and later to December 2024. One of the primary reasons for the delays was the need for structural modifications. The narrowing of a 90-meter stretch, caused by two buildings that were obstructing the construction, added considerable time to the project. Despite these challenges, officials are optimistic about the upcoming inauguration, which will mark a major milestone for the Noida infrastructure development.

Noida's New Administrative Headquarters: Overcoming Challenges

Alongside the elevated road, the Noida authority’s new administrative headquarters in Sector 96 is also nearing completion. Spread across six acres, this twin-tower building has been under construction since 2015. Originally conceived in 2009, the project faced delays from the start, with construction quality issues and delays of over 450 days forcing the Noida authority to blacklist the original contractor in 2022. A new contractor was appointed, and a structural audit by IIT-Delhi in 2023 revealed design flaws that required further corrective measures, including modifications to the pillar placement.

Initially estimated at ₹478 crore, the project’s budget has now been revised to ₹304 crore due to the change in contractors and the need for corrective work. Despite these challenges, the completion of the new headquarters is seen as a significant achievement for the Noida authority. The building will provide modern office space for the authority, enhancing its operational efficiency and contributing to the overall development of the city.

The completion of both the Bhangel Elevated Road and the new administrative headquarters is expected to provide a much-needed boost to Noida’s infrastructure. These projects have been long-awaited by residents and businesses alike, and their successful inauguration will mark the end of a difficult journey that included cost overruns, missed deadlines, and construction challenges.

The Bhangel Elevated Road, in particular, is seen as a key project for improving connectivity within the region, reducing congestion, and making travel more efficient for the growing population of Noida and Greater Noida. The road’s completion will likely spur further development in these areas, potentially increasing the value of properties and creating more business opportunities.

The new administrative headquarters will also contribute to the development of Sector 96, providing a modern space for the Noida authority’s operations and setting a benchmark for future government infrastructure projects. The Noida authority’s focus on completing these projects despite the setbacks is a testament to their commitment to the city’s growth and development.

Despite facing multiple challenges, including cost overruns and delays, the Noida authority is determined to complete these projects within the next two months. The Bhangel Elevated Road, in particular, will significantly improve connectivity between Noida and Greater Noida, easing traffic congestion and reducing travel time. Meanwhile, the new administrative headquarters will provide modern office space for the Noida authority, enhancing its operational efficiency. These projects are expected to have a lasting impact on the city’s growth and development, making them critical to Noida’s future.