The Delhi Cabinet on Wednesday gave its approval for construction of the new Wazirabad bridge and its approaches over the Yamuna downstream from the existing bridge. This controversial bridge, which was first proposed in 1997 and is better known as “Signature Bridge”, would not be referred to as such in official records.Speaking to the media after the Cabinet meeting, Ms. Dikshit said the nod had been given for construction of the Wazirabad bridge under two packages -- approaches to the main bridge and the cable-stayed main bridge across river the Yamuna. Once commissioned, the bridge will bring about a positive change in traffic scenario on both sides of the Yamuna near Wazirabad, she said, adding that the much-needed bridge would become a reality and facilitate smooth flow of traffic from all sides and benefit commuters on Outer Ring Road and other colonies that have come up on both sides of the Yamuna around the old Wazirabad bridge.
The new bridge will have a main bridge, western approach, eastern approach, pedestrian sub-ways, road sign-boards, horticulture and landscaping works. It will be ensured that compensatory plantation is taken up to eliminate any loss to greenery. Care would be taken to undertake shifting of services without any interruption.
Though Ms. Dikshit did not give out the financial details of the project, whose cost was pegged at Rs.464 crore when it was first passed in February 2006 by the Delhi Cabinet, it is understood that the cost now stands at Rs.1,128 crore.
