Delhi Roads Face Urgent Repairs After Survey
Delhi, some of the city’s most iconic and heavily trafficked, are showing signs of significant wear and tear, according to a new report by the CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CRRI). The institute conducted a visual distress survey on 78 roads across the region, assessing the condition of roads that have exceeded five years of their expected lifespan. The findings highlight deep cracks, surface deterioration, and roughness, which are becoming increasingly problematic for the city’s infrastructure.
The survey, commissioned by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), specifically examined roads within key locations of Delhi, including Connaught Place and its surrounding areas. With the interim report already submitted, CRRI will provide a final version, complete with photographic documentation and detailed specifications, in the coming month. According to CRRI’s chief scientist, Sunil Jain, the analysis of the pavement condition index formed the basis for their assessment. The results were concerning, indicating a need for urgent rehabilitation and surface treatments to restore these roads to their optimal condition. The report has raised alarms regarding the extent of road damage, especially at high-traffic points like the Outer Circle Road in Connaught Place, where cracks were observed. To mitigate the damage, CRRI recommended milling—a process that involves the removal of the top layer of asphalt—to prevent the rising of road levels and to avoid waterlogging in surrounding areas. On Outer Circle Road, the report suggested removing 50-60mm of the road surface, followed by a 50mm stone matrix asphalt treatment. Other roads, such as Panchkuian Road and Atul Grover Road, also required similar treatments, with varying degrees of milling to address surface imperfections.
While the survey confirmed that many of the roads were in dire need of attention, it also highlighted some roads that remained in good condition, such as Jai Singh Road. However, the roundabout at this junction was identified as deteriorated, necessitating remedial work. Meanwhile, on Golf Link Road, the situation was more severe, with a recommendation for significant milling—up to 160mm—to prevent seasonal waterlogging, a problem that has become increasingly prevalent during the monsoon season.
The CRRI’s recommendations align with the guidelines of the Indian Road Congress, advocating for systematic milling and resurfacing to extend the life of these roads and enhance their usability. These methods are not only cost-effective but also sustainable, addressing road health without the need for complete reconstruction. This aligns with broader goals of ensuring a zero-net carbon approach and the promotion of eco-friendly urban planning. Of the 78 roads surveyed, 18 are in the R-I division, which covers prominent roads like Atul Grover Road, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Road, and Jai Singh Road. The R-II division saw roads such as APJ Abdul Kalam Road and Aurobindo Marg under review, while the R-IV division, which includes Sardar Patel Marg, Malcha Marg, and South Avenue Marg, saw similar deterioration. With the survey now complete, the NDMC is set to determine the costs for the necessary repairs and will soon float a tender for maintenance work.
The need for urgent action on these roads is evident, as the damage not only hampers traffic flow but also risks creating long-term infrastructure issues. The NDMC is now preparing for the next phase, which involves calling on CRRI for random surveys during the construction phase to ensure that the repairs are executed effectively. The ongoing attention to these roads underscores the city’s commitment to preserving its heritage while ensuring that modern infrastructure keeps pace with its growth and increasing traffic demands.
