The Delhi High Court has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the state of a flyover near Nathu Colony Chowk, which has developed serious structural issues less than a decade after its construction. Terming it a “scam,” the court questioned how a flyover, completed in 2015 at a significant cost, could deteriorate so quickly, while older structures built in the 1980s remain functional to this day.
The court’s stern remarks came during a hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by BJP MLA Jitendra Mahajan, who sought immediate action to repair and reopen the flyover. The court expressed deep concern about the public safety risks posed by the crumbling structure and pointed out that cracks in the flyover were first reported as early as 2018. However, despite the passage of years, no internal inquiry was conducted to investigate the cause of the damage, leading the court to accuse authorities of sweeping the issue under the rug. “Who are the people involved in this scam? How can you have such a weak structure? This is not even 10 years old. Can a flyover for which you would have spent crores come tumbling down? All flyovers constructed in the 1980s are still functional today. And your construction in 2015 is in shambles,” remarked the bench, expressing its frustration over the lack of accountability.
The High Court also slammed the government’s failure to take timely action, highlighting that a report by a consultant hired to assess the flyover’s condition was due in 2021 but remains awaited. This further fueled suspicions of corruption within the Delhi government and other involved authorities. “Someone is clearly trying to push corruption under the carpet,” the bench stated. The court directed that the CBI investigate the matter thoroughly, with particular focus on the clearances and completion certificates issued for the flyover. It also raised questions about the inadequate response from the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC), both of which are responsible for the flyover’s construction and repair. A contentious dispute between the two bodies over funding and responsibility for repairs has further delayed the flyover’s restoration.
In response, the Delhi government’s counsel attempted to justify the actions taken, including the installation of height barriers to limit heavy traffic. However, the court pointed out that the flyover was designed to manage traffic, including heavy vehicles, not just light traffic. The court was unconvinced by the temporary measures, and it emphasised that the underlying issue of corruption and negligence must be thoroughly investigated. As the investigation proceeds, the court’s ruling underscores a growing concern over the quality of infrastructure projects in Delhi and the apparent lack of accountability when things go wrong. With public safety at risk, the Delhi High Court’s demand for a comprehensive inquiry is an attempt to hold those responsible for the flyover’s failure accountable and to ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future.
