In a major push to modernize its road and metro infrastructure, Delhi is set to witness the rise of four double-decker flyovers that will serve both metro trains and vehicular traffic—stacked vertically. These structures are being developed collaboratively by the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), aiming to optimize space and ease congestion in high-traffic corridors.
What Are Double-Decker Flyovers and Why Now?
Unlike conventional flyovers, double-decker models allow two distinct modes of transport—metro rail on the top deck and road vehicles on the lower. This dual utility is particularly beneficial in crowded urban zones where horizontal expansion is limited.
For Delhi, where traffic snarls are a daily struggle, this approach signals a strategic shift. Not only will these structures help reduce commute times, but they’ll also support the city’s push for integrated transport infrastructure.
Where Are These Flyovers Being Built?
The four double-decker flyovers have been strategically planned across key regions to address specific congestion bottlenecks:
- Bhajanpura to Yamuna Vihar (Northeast Delhi): Will ease pressure on inner-residential corridors.
- Saket to Lado Sarai (South Delhi): A busy stretch connecting malls, hospitals, and Mehrauli’s historical zone.
- Madhuban Chowk to Outer Ring Road (Northwest Delhi): Links Rohini and Pitampura with central arteries.
- Peera Garhi to Mangolpuri (West Delhi): A key stretch through residential and commercial zones.
Each of these projects has been selected based on traffic load, existing bottlenecks, and available metro alignment as part of Delhi Metro’s Phase IV.
Key Features of the Project
- Metro on Top: Upper deck will carry metro lines (under Phase IV), reducing the need for separate overhead metro bridges.
- Traffic on Lower Deck: Designed to manage peak-hour traffic and ensure seamless vehicular flow.
- Minimal Land Use: Designed to optimize vertical space with limited footprint expansion.
PWD officials confirmed that construction has begun on some sites, with pillar erection and material staging visible at ground level.
Statements from Authorities and Citizens
A senior engineer from the Delhi PWD noted:
“This is among the most space-efficient designs in India’s urban engineering portfolio. By combining modes, we’re reimagining public infrastructure.”
Commuters, too, seem optimistic.
“I take the Outer Ring Road daily. If this project works as promised, it’ll cut my drive by 20–30 minutes,” said Rakesh Mehta, a resident of Pitampura.
Integration with Metro Phase IV
The alignment of these flyovers will run parallel to or directly under parts of Delhi Metro Phase IV, making the project cost-effective and time-efficient. This co-location is a practical solution for infrastructure-heavy areas like Mangolpuri and Lado Sarai, where separate corridors would be infeasible.
Timeline and Completion Target
While no official date has been committed yet, work is expected to progress in phases through 2025. Authorities are targeting early 2026 for the first operational segments, subject to weather and civil clearances. Budget allocations were finalized under the 2025-26 transport and urban development outlays.
Local Impact and Urban Benefits
If successful, the model could become a blueprint for other metro cities struggling with the same space-traffic conundrum. Experts have praised the move for combining cost-efficiency, space optimization, and public convenience.
Urban mobility analyst Devika Rawal observed:
“What’s innovative here isn’t just the structure, but the mindset. Delhi is moving from reactive patchwork to proactive design.”
FAQs
What is a double-decker flyover?
A double-decker flyover features two stacked layers—typically a lower deck for vehicles and an upper for metro trains—allowing multi-modal transport in limited space.
Where will Delhi’s double-decker flyovers be built?
Four locations: Bhajanpura to Yamuna Vihar, Saket to Lado Sarai, Madhuban Chowk to Outer Ring Road, and Peera Garhi to Mangolpuri.
When will the flyovers be completed?
Construction has started in parts and the expected operational rollout is targeted for early 2026.
Will these flyovers help reduce traffic in Delhi?
Yes. These structures are designed to separate traffic layers vertically, helping reduce bottlenecks on major corridors.
Are these part of Metro Phase IV?
Yes. The top deck of each flyover will host metro tracks as part of Phase IV, ensuring integrated design and cost savings.
Will land be acquired for the project?
Minimal land acquisition is required. The vertical design helps utilize existing corridors and medians.
Which department is managing construction?
The flyovers are being constructed by Delhi PWD in collaboration with the DMRC.
What are the expected challenges?
Potential issues include coordination delays, monsoon-related halts, and the need for nighttime work to avoid daily traffic disruption.
How are locals reacting?
Initial public response is largely positive, with commuters hopeful about improved travel times and reduced chaos.
Could this model be replicated in other cities?
Yes. Cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad have expressed interest in adopting similar flyover designs.