Noida, the rapidly growing urban hub of India, is undergoing significant infrastructure enhancements aimed at improving the quality of life for its residents and commuters. From new power substations to revamped traffic regulations, these initiatives reflect the city's commitment to modernizing its urban framework.
A pivotal development is the construction of a 220 kV gas-insulated substation located at Sector 45. Spearheaded by the Uttar Pradesh Rajkiya Nirman Nigam (UPRNN) as part of a memorandum of understand (MoU) with the Noida Authority, this facility is set to bolster the power supply for several sectors along the Noida Expressway and nearby areas. At the heart of this expansion, the new substation is expected to be operational by the end of March 2024, having been developed at a substantial cost of Rs 100 crore.
According to RP Singh, deputy general manager (DGM) of the electrical and maintenance department of the Noida Authority, "Following the demand raised by PVVNL Noida, we commissioned the building of a new 220 kV substation in Sector 45. This is nearing completion as nearly 90% of the work is completed, and we will hand over the substation to Noida PVVNL by March-end for testing and operations from April this year." This substation will serve as the fifth of its kind within Noida, complementing existing facilities located at sectors 20, 62, 129, and Sector 38A.
Crucially, the new substation will link to the existing 400 kV substation situated at Sector 148, enabling improved connectivity and reliability. With the connection work progressing alongside testing led by the transmission department of UPPCL, the infrastructure advances aim to address the increasing power demand of this urban region.
While Noida enhances its electrical grid, the city is also implementing stricter traffic regulations to manage its increasing commuter traffic effectively. With new rules now enforced on three major routes, drivers are reminded to exercise mindfulness when changing lanes. Specifically, vehicles are mandated to shift lanes at least 100 meters before designated lanes change zones. This precautionary measure aims to prevent sudden shifts which can lead to accidents and traffic congestion.
These updated rules apply to routes including the Charkha to Kalindi Kunj turn, GIP to Mahamaya, and the DND and Chilla route. Not only do they specify lane discipline, but they also promote awareness among drivers to follow the signboards installed at key points. Violations of these rules will incur penalties, reinforcing the importance of adhering to the regulations.
To bolster this initiative, the Noida traffic police have deployed monitoring teams at the mentioned routes. The authorities are also collaborating on infrastructure upgrades to ease congestion, particularly along the heavily trafficked road from Sector-18 to Rajnigandha, well-known for bottlenecks on busy days.
Addressing specific areas of concern, plans are underway to construct a slip road on the left side of BHEL, providing commuters with alternate routes, hence reducing gridlocks faced by vehicles frequently heading to Rajnigandha. These alterations to the road infrastructure will necessitate relocating two trees following the appropriate clearance from the Forest Department. Meanwhile, two public toilets located on the footpath will be removed, offering additional space for traffic movement.
With the implementation of these measures, Noida drivers are urged to remain attentive and to plan their lane changes well in advance to help maintain smooth traffic flow throughout the city. Should these enforcement strategies yield positive results, officials might extend these lane discipline regulations across the district.
Overall, the infrastructure improvements across Noida signify the city’s proactive approach to managing urban challenges. With growing power requirements and increasing traffic, these developments reflect broader efforts to make Noida not just more efficient but also safer and more accommodating for all who live and travel within its limits.