Road Project : Starting tomorrow, a major road widening project is set to begin, impacting more than 800 homes and commercial establishments. The initiative, part of a broader infrastructure upgrade, has sparked both support and concern among residents, business owners, and commuters. While authorities promise smoother traffic and long-term benefits, the displacement of hundreds has raised serious questions about rehabilitation, compensation, and civic planning.
Why the Road Project is Being Carried Out
The road widening work is part of a regional infrastructure development plan aimed at easing congestion, improving traffic flow, and enhancing connectivity across key city corridors. Over the past decade, rapid urbanization has led to traffic bottlenecks, especially in older parts of the city. This project is aimed at addressing:
- Increased traffic volume and vehicular congestion
- Narrow roads that cannot accommodate peak-hour traffic
- Poor road conditions leading to accidents and slowdowns
- Delays in emergency services due to road blockage
- Urban planning initiatives to connect key commercial zones
- Push for smart city compliance and national road standards
Areas Affected and Scope of the Project
According to municipal authorities, the following areas will be most affected during this phase of the road widening work:
- Main Market Road
- Gandhi Chowk to Bus Depot stretch
- Sector 4 Junction to Railway Crossing
- Temple Road and adjoining residential lanes
- Vegetable Market Lane
- Old Town Commercial Zone
- New Industrial Belt entrance
- College Circle Road
Key Figures of the Road Project
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Start Date | May 30, 2025 |
| Expected Completion Date | December 15, 2025 |
| Total Length of Road to be Widened | 11.6 km |
| Estimated Budget | ₹328 Crore |
| No. of Homes Affected | 450+ |
| No. of Shops to be Removed | 375+ |
| Compensation Package Per Family | ₹2.5 Lakh to ₹5 Lakh |
| Resettlement Deadline | June 30, 2025 |
Compensation and Rehabilitation Measures
In response to public concerns, government officials have assured that all eligible residents and shopkeepers will receive fair compensation and assistance for relocation. Here are the measures currently proposed:
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- Monetary compensation ranging between ₹2.5 to ₹5 lakh per affected unit
- Allotted alternative shops at new municipal complexes for displaced businesses
- Temporary accommodation for households affected within 24 hours
- Free transportation and packaging for displaced families
- Dedicated helpline and grievance redressal cell
- Fast-tracked documentation for compensation claims
- Public hearings and legal assistance for property verification
Compensation Distribution Table
| Category | No. of Units | Compensation Range | Relocation Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential Homes | 450+ | ₹2.5 – ₹5 Lakh | Yes |
| Small Retail Shops | 280 | ₹1.5 – ₹4 Lakh | Yes |
| Large Establishments | 95 | Negotiated Terms | Case-by-case |
| Religious Structures | 8 | Special Assessment | Relocation Offered |
| Vendors/Stalls | 120 | ₹25,000 – ₹75,000 | Yes |
| Rental Tenants | 160 | ₹1.2 – ₹2 Lakh | Yes |
| Warehouse Owners | 15 | ₹3 – ₹6 Lakh | Yes |
Traffic Diversion and Commuter Advisory
To accommodate the construction work and demolition activities, the local traffic department has announced temporary diversions and restrictions. These are expected to be in place for several months and may lead to delays if not followed carefully:
- Diversions at Sector 4 and Gandhi Chowk for 6 weeks
- One-way traffic system on Temple Road
- Restricted entry near College Circle between 10 AM – 5 PM
- Special signage and wardens deployed at busy junctions
- Public transport routes changed on 4 major bus lines
- School buses advised to use alternate routes
- Ride-sharing services urged to update their GPS paths
What Residents Are Saying
The community response to this development has been mixed:
- Many residents support the project, citing the need for better infrastructure
- Shopkeepers express concern over customer loss and unclear rehabilitation timelines
- Some families are unsure about whether their properties are officially included in the demolition list
- Local leaders are demanding that resettlement happen before demolition, not after
- Civic activists are urging more transparency and faster compensation delivery
What You Should Do If You Are Affected
If your property falls under the affected zone, here’s what you should immediately consider:
- Visit the nearest municipal office to verify your status
- Submit property ownership or rental documents
- Fill out the compensation claim form before the official deadline
- Attend local ward meetings to stay updated
- Use the helpline: 1800-889-2525 for real-time information
- Document all possessions and take photos for legal reference
The road widening project, while a step toward modernization and traffic decongestion, brings with it major disruptions for over 800 households and businesses. Authorities must now ensure that rehabilitation and compensation are handled transparently, efficiently, and with minimal trauma to affected citizens. As the project kicks off tomorrow, the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping public opinion and determining whether infrastructure growth can coexist with humane urban planning.
How are local businesses preparing for the road project's impact?
They are adjusting hours and promotions to mitigate potential losses.
How will the road project impact local residents' daily commutes?
Traffic delays and detours may affect residents' travel plans.
