The underpass on Dwarka Expressway near Sector 102 in Gurgaon is undergoing a week-long closure for essential repairs, following recommendations from the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI).
The closure, implemented by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), aims to address water seepage issues identified within a year of the underpass’s opening. To minimise traffic disruption, the closure is being carried out in phases. The carriageway from Sector 9 to Sector 102 was closed on Thursday evening and will remain shut until May 25. Subsequently, the opposite carriageway, from Sector 102 to Sector 9, will be closed from May 25 to May 29. This phased approach is designed to ensure that at least one lane remains operational at all times, facilitating smoother traffic flow.
Opened in June 2024 at a cost of ₹24 crore, the 585-metre-long, four-lane underpass has experienced water seepage due to damage to movement joints and a high water table in the area. While no structural distress has been reported, the seepage has raised concerns among commuters and residents. The NHAI, in collaboration with CBRI and L&T officials, conducted a site assessment earlier this month and recommended targeted repair measures to arrest the seepage. The repair strategy involves polyurethane grouting, a quick-setting material that reacts with water to form a flexible seal. This method was preferred over other grouting options, such as cementitious, chemical, and microfine, due to the nature of the leakage. The process includes drilling near the affected joints, cleaning the area, injecting the grout, and adhering to strict curing standards to ensure long-term effectiveness.
This is not the first instance of water seepage in the underpass. Last month, the Sector 102–102A underpass underwent similar repairs using grouting techniques. The recurring issues have prompted the NHAI to bring in CBRI for a detailed structural review, leading to the current round of repairs. The NHAI has assured the public that the underpass remains structurally safe and that the repairs are being carried out in line with Indian Road Congress and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways guidelines. The underpass was designed to ease congestion and improve connectivity   of Gurgaon. It provides direct access to  101, 104 linking them to NH8. However, the recurring maintenance issues have caused inconvenience to commuters, leading to increased travel times and concerns about the quality of infrastructure.
The construction of the underpass began in  January 2022 and resumed only  September 2023. Despite the challenges, the underpass was opened to traffic  2024, aiming to alleviate congestion and improve connectivity in the region. As the repairs progress, the NHAI has urged commuters to plan their routes accordingly and exercise caution while passing through the area. The authority has also committed to conducting regular maintenance checks to prevent future issues and ensure the longevity of the underpass. The ongoing efforts reflect a commitment to enhancing infrastructure quality and addressing the concerns of residents and commuters in Gurgaon.
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