A major infrastructure project in East Delhi has turned into a massive problem for the administration and commuters. The Nathu Colony Chowk flyover, constructed with a budget of ₹125 crore, has been officially declared unsafe for use. The Public Works Department (PWD) is now finalizing the process to dismantle the structure after it failed critical safety tests.
Why is the Nathu Colony flyover failing?
The flyover was originally opened to the public in 2015 to ease traffic between Durgapuri Chowk and Nand Nagri. However, within three years, severe cracks and falling debris were reported. A formal load test conducted in May 2025 confirmed that the deck slabs are not strong enough to carry heavy vehicles. The final technical report submitted in December 2025 cited the use of substandard materials and poor design as the main reasons for this failure.
What is the plan for reconstruction?
The PWD has decided to demolish the upper portion of the flyover to ensure public safety. According to the new design drawings received in December 2025, the department will remove all 28 slabs of the upper deck. However, engineers plan to salvage and reuse the 20 existing pillars for the new structure. The tendering process for this dismantling work is currently underway.
- Total Initial Cost: ₹125 Crore
- Opened to Public: 2015
- Load Test Result: Failed in May 2025
- Action Plan: Demolition of upper deck
Local MLA Jitendra Mahajan has approached the Delhi High Court regarding this issue. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed demanding that the cost of reconstruction should be recovered from the corrupt officials and contractors who built the original structure. The High Court has also made strong observations about the project quality.
