The Noida Authority is set to hire a private company to manage the maintenance of the 25 km Noida Expressway, in anticipation of higher traffic following the opening of the international airport in Jewar in April this year. The CEO of the Noida Authority, Lokesh M, highlighted the need to improve the expressway’s visual appeal, as it will serve as a key route for international delegates traveling to and from the new airport. The Authority intends to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to select a private company responsible for a comprehensive beautification plan. This plan includes the development of green belts, decorative lighting installation, fountain construction, landscaping, and the creation of artistic murals along the expressway. The contract for the beautification project will initially last for one year, with the possibility of extension based on the company’s performance. Currently, the expressway's maintenance is managed by the Authority's horticulture department but has not met desired standards, with problems like dying trees and damaged infrastructure, particularly beyond Sector 125. In addition to aesthetic improvements, the renovation plan also includes key upgrades for safety and traffic management. Following recommendations from the Regional Centre for Urban and Environmental Studies (RCUES), the Authority will improve road markings and signage in line with Indian Road Congress (IRC) standards. To address traffic congestion, two new underpasses will be built. One, near Jhatta village, will be 800 metre long and is estimated to cost Rs 1.17 billion, while the other, near Sultanpur village, will cost Rs 930 million. Both projects have received technical approval from IIT-Roorkee and final clearance from the Authority. These new underpasses will complement the existing three underpasses on the expressway, benefitting residents from 30 sectors and 15 villages. The tendering process for these underpass projects is expected to begin soon. The overall development plan aims to upgrade the Noida Expressway to metropolitan standards, ensuring it can effectively accommodate the expected increase in traffic following the airport's opening. News source: The Times of India