Delhi Pragati Maidan underpass-5 back on track after Railway NOC work is scheduled to finish by Dec 2026

TOI City Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Apr 7, 2026, 14:40 IST

Text Size

Small
Medium
Large

1/10

Railway NOC clears hurdle

The long-pending no-objection certificate from Indian Railways has removed the final obstacle for the stalled underpass-5 project at Pragati Maidan. (AI Image)

2/10

Project timeline set

With all clearances in place, authorities have set a deadline of December 2026 for completion. (AI Image)

3/10

Key connectivity boost

The Bhairon Marg underpass will provide signal-free connectivity between Sarai Kale Khan and Mathura Road. (AI Image)

4/10

Traffic decongestion

Once operational, it will help commuters bypass the busy Ring Road–Bhairon Marg junction, easing congestion. (AI Image)

5/10

Strategic location impact

The project will improve traffic flow across east, central and southeast Delhi, including stretches near ITO, Rajghat and Laxmi Nagar. (AI Image)

6/10

Part of larger corridor

The underpass is a component of the Pragati Maidan Integrated Transit Corridor project aimed at improving mobility around the area. (AI Image)

7/10

Delays due to challenges

The project remained stalled for years due to engineering complexities and coordination issues among multiple agencies. (AI Image)

8/10

Revised plan approval

A breakthrough came in August 2025 when the Union ministry of housing and urban affairs approved a revised PWD plan addressing soil settlement and design concerns near railway embankments. (AI Image)

9/10

Final clearance awaited

Despite approvals, construction could not proceed earlier due to the absence of mandatory Railway clearance given proximity to active tracks. (AI Image)

10/10

Govt assurance on execution

Verma said govt focused on resolving bottlenecks through direct intervention. "This project had been stuck for years due to pending clearances and lack of coordination. We worked to resolve issues, instead of passing responsibility. With this NOC, the final hurdle has been cleared. The focus is now on execution, speed and accountability. The project will be completed by Dec 2026," he said. (AI Image)

TOI