Delhi govt considers new Yamuna bridge to tackle rising traffic

New Delhi: The Delhi government is exploring plans to build a new bridge over the Yamuna River to reduce traffic jams and improve connectivity in parts of East Delhi. Officials said the bridge could come up near the Signature Bridge, or the existing Old Iron Bridge may be replaced.

The idea was discussed in a recent meeting between the Trans-Yamuna Board and the Public Works Department. A senior official said the proposal is still at an early stage and no final decision has been taken yet.

According to officials, the plan aims to strengthen road links between North East, North and Central Delhi, especially in the Trans-Yamuna region.

Authorities expect traffic pressure to increase in the coming months as new infrastructure projects become operational. With RRTS stations nearing completion and the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway set to improve connectivity, congestion along the Ring Road, particularly around Sarai Kale Khan, is likely to grow.

At present, the Delhi-Meerut Expressway and the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway both end near Sarai Kale Khan. The DND-Sohna, also known as the Jewar link of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, is also expected to open soon.

Keeping future traffic in mind, the government is considering a new bridge. Officials said the exact location has not been decided. The PWD will conduct a detailed study of the stretch between Old Wazirabad and Kalindi Kunj to assess traffic flow, congestion levels and overall feasibility.

The Old Iron Bridge, popularly called Loha Pul, is a double-decker structure. Vehicles use the lower deck while trains run on the upper deck. At present, around 25 road and rail bridges cross the Yamuna River in Delhi.

(with inputs from agencies)