Gurgaon Continues to Face Traffic Chaos as Dwarka Expressway Opening Gets Delayed
The formal opening of the Dwarka Expressway in Gurgaon has been further delayed, with the new target now set for August. As a result, commuters in the city can expect to encounter ongoing traffic diversions and road closures, while some may resort to driving on the wrong side in their attempts to reach destinations near the elevated corridor.
The responsibility for managing this persistent chaos, stemming from repeated project delays, falls upon the district administration and traffic police. In response, they have announced plans to increase the number of barricades to restrict access to the expressway.
One particular problem area is the cloverleaf intersection linking the Dwarka Expressway with NH-8 and the Southern Peripheral Road (SPR). Although this section has not yet been officially opened, many commuters have already begun utilizing the cloverleaf loops to facilitate easier access between the new sectors, NH-8, and other parts of the city. Consequently, high-speed traffic can be observed moving in both directions within the same lanes.
A tragic incident on May 7 resulted in the death of a 56-year-old woman from Delhi and left five others injured. Their vehicle collided head-on with another car being driven on the wrong side of the expressway.
In response to the incident, Deputy Commissioner Nishant Yadav ordered the barricading of all access points to the expressway two days later. However, according to a report by TOI last week, the barricades have had limited impact on deterring commuters who have been eagerly awaiting the completion of the project for years.
District officials and traffic police clarified on Thursday that their primary objective is to ensure that the expressway remains inaccessible. “The expressway has not been opened for traffic, and people should refrain from using it,” emphasized a senior officer from the district administration. He further added that a traffic management plan would be formulated once the expressway becomes operational.
“He further added that the present state of vehicle movement on the road is unsafe and unregulated, posing a significant risk. It is of utmost importance that individuals prioritize their safety and avoid endangering their lives.”
“Gurgaon’s Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Virender Vij, has issued instructions to the contractor to close off all access points and install additional barricades,” he confirmed. When questioned about commuters still utilizing the unopened expressway, the DCP emphasized that all access points would remain closed.”
However, many commuters believe that the blockade will fail to deter them. “After years of delays, the expressway is ready, yet we are being prevented from using it and compelled to pay toll charges at Kherki Daula. The completed stretches should be opened,” expressed Sumit Mishra, a resident of Sector 105 Dwarka Expressway.
Must Read:- Central Peripheral Road and Loop Connecting Dwarka Expressway with NH-8 Open for Commuters
