Sukhna Choe bridge height to go up to tackle flooding woes

The connectivity between Chandigarh and Panchkula is set to improve as Madhya Marg will be decongested following construction of a high-level bridge on Sukhna Choe near Bapu Dham in Sector 26 here. The bridge will come up on an alternative road to Panchkula.

The UT Administration has given a green signal for the construction of a high-level bridge on Sukhna Choe to mitigate the impact of heavy monsoon rains. The project promises to maintain seamless travel even during peak rainfall, ensuring that no amount of water flowing through the choe will disrupt connectivity.

The Administration has planned a topographical survey, hydraulic studies and detailed designing of the high-level bridge that will replace the existing structure between Sector 26 and Shastri Nagar in Mani Majra. A consultant will be hired to prepare a detailed project report, working drawings and manage the tender process. The consultancy service alone is estimated to cost around Rs 26 lakh.

Detailed survey

The survey will involve assessing water flow patterns, soil sampling, and analysing the topography to ensure the bridge’s stability and durability. The consultant will collect data on when and where water accumulation causes the most disruption, determining the most suitable design and type of pillars for the bridge.

The final design will aim to prevent any future disruption in connectivity like the one experienced in 2023 when monsoon flooding damaged the bridge and left Panchkula accessible through a single route.

A three-day study will be conducted to examine vehicle traffic. Special cameras will record the flow and categorise the vehicles by size, providing the administration with comprehensive data on traffic density. This information will be pivotal in shaping the bridge’s capacity and structural requirements.

Alternative route in works

To reduce traffic on Madhya Marg, the administration is not only focusing on the high-level bridge but is also planning another alternative route. A new road will link the Panchkula main road from Hallo Majra light point near Makhanmajra via the Industrial Area’s rear side, passing through Daria.

This alternative path will serve as a significant corridor for vehicles coming from Tribune Chowk, Sectors 27, 28, and Mohali, and heading towards Panchkula.

The proposal for this additional route is currently awaiting clearance from the Forest and Wildlife Department. Once approval is in, a detailed design will be crafted, identifying the land needed for development and assessing the need for additional bridges.