GMDA sets 2-week deadline to clear land hurdles for NH-8 link

The GMDA announced that HSVP and MCM were instructed to eliminate obstacles hindering the land acquisition for the Rampura-Pataudi Road renovation project. The authority mentioned that the deadline for resolving all hindrances delaying the project was set for April 15. It was reported by officials that encroachments in certain areas were also contributing to the project's delay. The directive was given during a review meeting to evaluate the progress of the project, which had been marked by missed deadlines. The 5.6km-long renovation of the stretch linking NH-8 and Pataudi Road with new sectors was initiated in 2020 and commenced in 2022. Initially scheduled for completion by August 2023, the deadline was extended by GMDA to December 2023, and later revised to March. Despite 20% of the work remaining incomplete, GMDA officials expressed optimism that the project could be finalised by the end of May. HSVP officials and the Land Acquisition Officer (LAO) were tasked with resolving the land acquisition issues within a fortnight. They were instructed to collaborate with landowners and other stakeholders to facilitate the necessary clearances. According to a GMDA official familiar with the situation, they were instructed to expedite the compensation process and address encroachment and demarcation issues. Similarly, MCM officials were directed to identify available land and potential relocation sites for a temple obstructing the main carriageway. The project's objective was to enhance connectivity in new sectors by transforming the existing road into a six-lane main carriageway, estimated at Rs 660 million. The design included service roads, cycle tracks, footpaths, and green spaces, promising improved traffic flow and safety for commuters and residents.