Delhi to get multi-utility ducts to end road digging, ease traffic: CM Rekha Gupta

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced plans to develop multi-utility ducts (MUDs) across the capital to reduce repeated road digging for utility work. The Delhi government approved the initiative at a recent cabinet meeting. The underground corridors will house power cables, water and gas pipelines, fire-hydrant networks and other essential services at technically suitable locations.PILOT PROJECTS IN CHANDNI CHOWKThe project will begin as a pilot in Chandni Chowk, with work set to start soon on two proposed corridors.A 310-metre stretch on Esplanade Road and a 560-metre stretch on Mor Sarai Road have been selected for the pilot.The experience from these projects will help the government plan the construction and expansion of multi-utility ducts in other parts of Delhi. The pilots will also assess how different utility services can be integrated into a shared underground network. WHY MULTI-UTILITY DUCTS?Currently, different agencies carry out underground work according to their individual requirements, often forcing roads to be dug up repeatedly. The proposed ducts will provide a common underground corridor for multiple utilities, reducing the need for repeated excavation.The system is expected to reduce traffic disruptions and public inconvenience while making repairs and future expansion of utility networks easier and faster. It will also lower the risk of utility lines being accidentally damaged during excavation and help maintain road quality.EXPERT PANEL TO GUIDE PROJECT The government will soon constitute an expert technical committee to guide the implementation of the project.The committee will include officials and experts from DISCOMs, the Delhi Jal Board, the Public Works Department (PWD) and other relevant departments. Construction and expansion of the ducts will be undertaken based on its recommendations and oversight.SAFETY FEATURES PLANNEDThe ducts will be designed with ventilation, fire safety measures and easy access for maintenance. Provisions will also be made for a rapid response during emergencies to ensure the safe and organised operation of multiple utility services underground.'INFRASTRUCTURE MUST BE FUTURE-READY'Gupta said Delhi's development vision is not limited to meeting its current needs, but also includes creating safe, organised and sustainable infrastructure for the future.She said the multi-utility duct system would improve coordination between agencies and create a structured framework for underground utility networks across Delhi.- EndsPublished On: Sep 3, 2026 16:12 IST