Delhi bets on a 53km track to cut carbon and create urban calm

Aiming to reduce emissions and traffic congestion, the Delhi Government will build a 53-kilometre-long cycle track stretching from the Wazirabad bridge to the Kalindi Kunj Biodiversity Park along both sides of the river Yamuna. It will also promote sporting activities and tourism. The cycle track project was conceptualised by the Delhi Development Authority.

The project will be developed in a continuous loop, with Phase I covering the stretch from the Old Yamuna Rail Bridge to NH-24, Phase II extending from NH-24 to the Kalindi Kunj Yamuna Biodiversity Park, and Phase III connecting the Wazirabad Yamuna Barrage to the Old Yamuna Rail Bridge.

The cycle track is expected to start near the Wazirabad barrage on the eastern side and pass along Pushta Road and the Old Iron Bridge before ending near the Hindon Sarovar project. On the western bank, the track is likely to run between the river and the Ring Road.

The riverfront spanning over 25 hectares is likely to be completed by June 30, 2026.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and attended by senior officials from the DDA, the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, PWD, Railways, the Power Department, Delhi Jal Board and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Detailed discussions took place on phased construction, inter-departmental coordination, the status of approvals and the project’s execution plan.

The chief minister said the Government aims to complete all three phases within a maximum of three years so that residents can benefit from the project at the earliest.

The CM was informed that most departments have already issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for the project and that coordination among agencies has been effectively established. Railway-related approvals are in the final stage, with continuous dialogue underway and a resolution expected shortly. The Chief Minister directed all departments to accord this project the highest priority and ensure seamless coordination at every level.

Delhi already has several kilometres of cycle tracks, but these lie unused because of encroachment, misuse and lack of practical routes.

At the meeting, she was informed that the tendering process had been completed and preparatory work for commencing construction is in its final stage. The Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure that there is no compromise on quality, safety or environmental standards and that citizens are provided with a safe, modern and aesthetically developed cycle track. She expressed confidence that the project will become a milestone in transforming Delhi into a clean, green and healthy metropolis, offering future generations a better environment and improved lifestyle.