Noida: A major development is underway in Noida, as the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has announced plans for a cloverleaf interchange near the Mahamaya flyover. This new interchange will connect the Chilla Elevated Road with a proposed expressway that links Noida to the Yamuna Expressway along the Yamuna Pushta Road. An official from the Authority indicated that the design of this key interchange will mirror the one constructed near AIIMS in Delhi, which is known for its efficiency.
The planned elevated expressway is set to extend from Kalindi Kunj to the Yamuna Expressway, significantly improving traffic flow in the region. Currently, the Chilla Elevated Road is under construction and spans 5.9 kilometers, featuring six lanes. This corridor is being built at a cost of Rs 892 crore and aims to alleviate traffic congestion at the Noida entry point, allowing vehicles from Mayur Vihar to access the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway directly.
In addition to easing traffic, the new proposed road from Sector 94 will offer six lanes elevated and eight lanes at ground level, providing a direct route to the upcoming Noida International Airport. Once these two roads are linked, they will facilitate smooth passage for traffic coming from Delhi and Haryana towards Agra, Lucknow, and the airport, eliminating the need to enter the busy Noida Expressway. This will also benefit vehicles returning from Agra and Greater Noida back towards Delhi and Haryana.
During a recent press conference marking the Authority's 49th foundation day, officials revealed plans for a new attraction inspired by New York's iconic Times Square. A portion of Sector 18 will be transformed into a vibrant, pedestrian-only zone adorned with massive LED screens and lively public spaces. Foundation work for this project is expected to commence within the next 10 days, with an estimated cost of around Rs 10 crore. The project is slated for completion within a year once construction begins.
The new space, covering approximately 6,500 square feet, will feature large LED screens capable of displaying live matches, shows, and films. A video wall, a chroma wall, a kids' play area, and seating for over 150 people with standing space for over 100 will also be included. This initiative aims to enhance the urban experience in Noida, making it a more attractive destination for both residents and visitors.
Furthermore, the Authority is exploring the possibility of collaborating with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to construct the new expressway, which could potentially be designated as a national highway. If NHAI does not participate, the Noida, Greater Noida, and Yamuna Expressway authorities can jointly undertake the construction, as suggested by the state's chief secretary and Noida Authority board chairman, Manoj Kumar Singh. One proposed approach involves forming a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to jointly fund and manage the project.
At a board meeting held last month, the Noida Authority granted in-principle approval to this long-awaited expressway project. Detailed discussions were held regarding its necessity, route, and design, emphasizing the urgency to alleviate the increasing pressure on the existing 25-kilometer Noida Expressway, particularly with the surge in residential and commercial developments along it and the new airport nearing completion.
Currently, two options are being considered for the expressway: an eight-lane expressway at ground level or a six-lane elevated road running along the embankments of the Yamuna River from Okhla Barrage near Kalindi Kunj to the Yamuna Expressway. This alternative route has been under consideration for some time, but the urgency has increased due to the growing traffic congestion in the area.
In a related development, YEIDA is also planning to establish a new animal rescue and rehabilitation center near the Noida International Greenfield Airport. This initiative aims to mitigate the impact of airport development on local wildlife. The proposed site is situated close to the Dhanauri wetland, an area rich in biodiversity.
The first phase of the airport spans 1,334 hectares and lies near six villages that are home to various species, including Nilgai, Blackbuck, Indian Gazelle, Monkey, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, and even Sarus Cranes, which are India’s tallest flying birds. The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in Dehradun has recommended the construction of this center alongside other conservation efforts to help protect the local ecosystem.
The animal rescue center will cover 10 hectares, with land provided jointly by YEIDA and the forest department. Originally planned as a temporary setup, the center will now be granted a 30-year lease, reflecting a long-term commitment to wildlife care. A global tender has already been issued to find the appropriate team to build and manage the center.
The total estimated cost for the center is Rs 3.42 crore, funded by the Noida International Airport Limited (NIAL), the agency responsible for the airport’s development. The budget breakdown includes Rs 74 lakh allocated for the animal hospital, Rs 21 lakh for the quarantine center, and Rs 10 lakh for annual maintenance. Dedicated sections for various species, including monkeys, Nilgai, and blackbucks, will ensure safe and proper care for each animal.
As Noida continues to evolve with these significant infrastructure projects, the combination of improved traffic management and wildlife conservation efforts highlights the Authority's commitment to both urban development and environmental sustainability. These initiatives not only aim to enhance the quality of life for residents but also to preserve the rich biodiversity of the region as urbanization progresses.
