Signature Bridge revamp plan not ready

NEW DELHI: The construction of the much-delayed Signature Bridge over the Yamuna river on Wazirabad is nearing its end. The state government, however, is still to come up with a concrete plan to develop its surroundings.

When the project was first conceptualised in 2004, it was decided that the space close to the bridge would also be developed as a picnic destination.

As per a proposal, the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC) was to initiate revamp on areas surrounding the bridge in second phase, soon after the completion of the bridge construction.

However, the agencies concerned are yet to finalise a plan. A senior Delhi government official said the issue was flagged recently with the officials .

“The construction of the bridge is in its final phase and may be completed by April. There is, however, no plan to spruce up the areas surrounding the bridge,” he said.

The previous Sheila Dikshit government had planned recreational facilities such as water sports, boating, open-air theatre, food plazas with promenades and winding walkways at Yamuna bank to attract a larger number of tourists. The area is also to be rejuvenated as a habitat for avian and aquatic life.

The project has missed several deadlines. When the AAP came to power, Delhi tourism minister Kapil Mishra had announced that he would review the project weekly.