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Pragati Maidan Tunnel Gets Makeover Ahead of G20 Summit

2023-08-28

The Pragati Maidan transit corridor, encompassing the primary 1.4-km tunnel, is currently undergoing renovations in preparation for the G20 Summit. Despite its opening in June 2022, noticeable signs of deterioration have emerged. While the tunnel receives nightly routine maintenance closures, additional personnel have been assigned to provide the finishing touches. This includes tasks such as cleaning, sweeping, inspecting fire safety measures, and verifying other systems, as explained by a senior official.

The restoration efforts are focused on the lanes from India Gate C-hexagon to Pragati Maidan-Bharat Mandapam. A stark contrast is visible, with one side of the corridor featuring vibrant and glossy artwork, while the other appears coated in dust.

Affected by flooding and water seepage, the tunnel's floor now bears cracks, and its walls are marred by paan stains, which are being washed off. Following the cleaning process, painters will carry out minor touch-ups on the mural artwork within. Officials have revealed that a workforce of sweepers, painters, and laborers is actively engaged in the tunnel's refurbishment and aims to complete the task within the next three days.

Upon its inauguration, there were discussions within the Indian Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) regarding guided tours of the expansive artwork for foreign embassy officials. The tunnel was even occasionally closed on Sundays to accommodate designated visitors interested in admiring the artwork. However, this plan fizzled out due to the tunnel's heat and visitors' requests for drinking water, an unfeasible provision.

The comprehensive transit network, comprising six underpasses in addition to the main tunnel, was an integral facet of the Pragati Maidan's redevelopment, constructed at an expense of Rs 923 crore. The structure ranks among the lengthiest box-pushed tunnels and is positioned beneath a seven-track railway line. Notably, the construction of underpass number five is still in progress.

During a recent period of heavy rainfall, the tunnel was temporarily shuttered due to internal flooding. The accumulated water caused damage to certain systems, although subsequent repairs were conducted. The accuracy of these repairs is currently being verified. Security personnel, tasked with safeguarding the artwork and equipment from theft, have received instructions to exercise increased vigilance, according to a security guard. It's been conveyed that the tunnel will be transferred to the armed forces a few days before the summit takes place.