A Vision for Progress: What’s Happening?
The Aligarh Municipal Corporation (AMC), in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Public Works Department (UPPWD), has greenlit multiple projects under its “Smart Aligarh” initiative. Key among these are the widening of critical arterial roads, the construction of two new flyovers, and upgrades to existing junctions. These efforts aim to decongest hotspots like the Delhi Gate intersection, Ramghat Road, and the bustling Atrauli-Sasni Gate stretch—areas notorious for traffic snarls during peak hours.
1. Road Development in Aligarh: Expanding Horizons
The road expansion drive focuses on enhancing key corridors, including the 7-kilometer stretch of GT Road (NH-91) from Dhanipur Gulothi to Jiwangarh. This project, slated for completion by mid-2025, will see the existing two-lane road transformed into a four-lane thoroughfare with dedicated bicycle tracks and pedestrian pathways. Similarly, the Ramghat Road extension, connecting the historic Ramghat area to the Aligarh Junction Railway Station, is being widened to accommodate growing vehicular and foot traffic.
2. New Flyovers in Aligarh: Bridging the Gap
Two landmark flyover projects are set to redefine the city’s skyline. The first, a 1.2-kilometer flyover at the Delhi Gate intersection, will streamline traffic flow between the old city and newer suburbs. The second, a 900-meter flyover near the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) campus, aims to alleviate congestion caused by student and tourist movement. Both projects, costing an estimated ₹320 crores, are expected to be operational by late 2026.
Why Now? The Push Behind the Projects
Aligarh’s infrastructure push aligns with Uttar Pradesh’s broader goal of developing Tier-2 cities into economic hubs. As the city’s lock manufacturing and agriculture industries expand, improved connectivity is critical to attracting investment and talent. Additionally, the surge in vehicle ownership—a 22% increase since 2020, per RTO data—has made road development in Aligarh a pressing priority.
Traffic police officials highlight that the new infrastructure will also enhance safety. “Accident-prone zones like the Collectorate Circle and Umra Pul will see better signage, lighting, and lane discipline,” explains Deputy SP (Traffic) Anjali Singh.
Community Impact: Voices from the Ground
While the projects have garnered widespread support, residents emphasize the need for transparent execution. Concerns over displacement of street vendors and prolonged construction timelines linger. The AMC has assured stakeholders of inclusive planning, with rehabilitation packages for affected vendors and weekly progress updates via social media.
Looking Ahead: Sustainability and Smart Solutions
Beyond concrete and steel, the infrastructure overhaul incorporates eco-friendly elements. Solar-powered streetlights, rainwater harvesting systems along widened roads, and green belts featuring native plants are part of the blueprint. The UPPWD is also exploring intelligent traffic management systems (ITMS) to optimize signal timings based on real-time data.
Conclusion: A City on the Move
Aligarh’s infrastructure renaissance marks a pivotal chapter in its journey toward becoming a model urban center. While challenges remain, the road expansions and new flyovers in Aligarh symbolize a collective stride toward progress—one that promises to uplift quality of life, boost commerce, and put the city on the map as a destination of opportunity.
As bulldozers rumble and cranes dot the horizon, residents await a brighter, smoother tomorrow. For now, the message is clear: Aligarh is building not just roads and bridges, but a foundation for the future.
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