The Delhi government will allow advertisements on around 100 foot overbridges (FOBs) to raise revenue for their maintenance. Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Parvesh Verma has instructed officials to prepare a proposal for the initiative, aimed at improving the deteriorating condition of FOBs across the city.

These bridges, located on busy roads, have faced criticism for malfunctioning lifts, broken escalators, and cracked roofing. To address these issues, the government plans to implement a revenue-sharing model with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, which will issue no objection certificates for the project. Currently, advertising is permitted only on a few bridges, such as the one at Akshardham.

The PWD has faced repeated rebukes from the courts over poor upkeep. In 2023, the Delhi High Court noted that the condition of many FOBs was so poor that even healthy individuals struggled to use them. Following this, the PWD formed a committee to oversee maintenance, including cleaning, repairs, and protection against vandalism and theft.

Officials believe this advertising plan will provide sufficient funds to maintain the infrastructure and restore functionality to these critical pedestrian crossings.

Source: Press Trust of India