New Delhi – The chronic Dhaula Kuan waterlogging issue that has plagued commuters for years may finally see resolution as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has released ₹3.5 crore to the Delhi Cantonment Board (DCB) for implementing a comprehensive drainage solution. This significant investment aims to address the persistent flooding problem at the Parade Road underpass near Dhaula Kuan Metro station.
Understanding the Dhaula Kuan Waterlogging Problem
The Dhaula Kuan waterlogging issue specifically pertains to flooding at the underpass near Metro pillar numbers 156 and 157. This stretch regularly becomes inundated during heavy rainfall, causing severe disruption to traffic movement and significantly affecting nearby residential areas, including parts of Rama Vihar.
The Parade Road underpass serves as a crucial connector between Dhaula Kuan and Delhi Cantonment, witnessing heavy traffic volumes daily. During monsoon season, the Dhaula Kuan waterlogging problem intensifies as the underpass frequently accumulates water due to inadequate stormwater discharge infrastructure, leading to vehicle breakdowns and extensive traffic congestion.
Multi-Agency Coordination to Address Dhaula Kuan Waterlogging
The Dhaula Kuan waterlogging matter has been under active discussion among multiple agencies working under a coordination framework to resolve infrastructure bottlenecks on the national highway corridor in the capital. The agencies involved include NHAI, the Public Works Department (PWD), Delhi Cantonment Board, and the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA).
This collaborative approach ensures that all stakeholders contribute their expertise and resources toward developing a permanent solution to the Dhaula Kuan waterlogging crisis that has affected commuters and residents for extended periods.
Financial Commitment for Dhaula Kuan Waterlogging Solution
Following a crucial meeting between NHAI officials and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta last week, significant progress was made on addressing the Dhaula Kuan waterlogging issue. The status note from the UT-level committee meeting held on August 21, 2025, recorded that NHAI had released ₹3.5 crore to the Delhi Cantonment Board specifically for implementing a drainage solution in the affected area.
This substantial financial commitment demonstrates NHAI’s recognition of the severity of the Dhaula Kuan waterlogging problem and the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades to prevent future flooding incidents during monsoon seasons.
Technical Assessment of Dhaula Kuan Waterlogging
The Delhi Cantonment Board informed the committee that a comprehensive study is currently underway to assess the drainage requirements necessary to eliminate Dhaula Kuan waterlogging permanently. This technical assessment will provide detailed specifications for the infrastructure improvements required to handle increased water volumes during heavy rainfall.
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Officials emphasized that understanding the precise drainage needs is crucial for designing an effective long-term solution to the Dhaula Kuan waterlogging challenge, ensuring that investments made now will prevent similar problems in the future.
Infrastructure Improvements to Prevent Dhaula Kuan Waterlogging
A key decision made regarding the Dhaula Kuan waterlogging solution involves NHAI allowing a drain to pass under NH-48. This drain will connect the PWD drain near Metro pillar 156 on one side with the DCB drain on the other, creating an integrated drainage network.
An official explained, “The proposal includes constructing a culvert to facilitate the crossing. The DCB indicated that the existing drain crossing was not designed to handle the increased volume of water, necessitating augmentation of the outfall capacity.” This infrastructure upgrade represents a critical component in resolving the Dhaula Kuan waterlogging issue.
Long-Term Strategy for Dhaula Kuan Waterlogging
Officials noted that DCB drains currently lack proper outfall infrastructure, contributing significantly to the Dhaula Kuan waterlogging problem. Linking the PWD drain with a strengthened DCB drainage system could offer a sustainable long-term solution to waterlogging not only around the Parade Road underpass but also in adjacent areas like Rama Vihar.
This integrated approach addresses the root causes of Dhaula Kuan waterlogging rather than merely treating symptoms, ensuring more effective flood prevention during monsoon seasons.
Hydrological Study for Dhaula Kuan Waterlogging
A detailed hydrological study is now being conducted by the School of Planning and Architecture to assess ground conditions and determine the optimal implementation strategy for resolving Dhaula Kuan waterlogging. This scientific approach ensures that solutions are based on accurate data and sound engineering principles.
The hydrological assessment will examine water flow patterns, soil conditions, drainage capacity requirements, and other technical factors essential for designing infrastructure that can effectively manage stormwater and prevent Dhaula Kuan waterlogging during intense rainfall events.
Master Drainage Scheme Development
Beyond addressing immediate Dhaula Kuan waterlogging concerns, the Delhi Cantonment Board is working through SPA to prepare a comprehensive master drainage scheme for the entire Delhi Cantonment area. This broader planning initiative will ensure systematic drainage infrastructure development that prevents waterlogging issues from emerging in other locations.
The master drainage scheme represents a proactive approach to urban water management, incorporating lessons learned from the Dhaula Kuan waterlogging experience to design more resilient infrastructure across the cantonment area.
Impact on Traffic and Residents
The Dhaula Kuan problem has severely impacted daily commuters who rely on the Parade Road underpass as a vital traffic artery. During monsoons, flooding forces traffic diversions, increases journey times, and creates hazardous driving conditions that have resulted in numerous vehicle breakdowns.
Residential areas near the underpass, particularly Rama Vihar, have also suffered due to Dhaula Kuan, with water entering nearby properties and creating health and safety concerns for residents during rainy seasons.
Expected Timeline and Implementation
With financial resources now allocated and technical studies underway, implementation of solutions to address Dhaula Kuan issue of waterlogging is expected to commence following completion of assessment work. The multi-agency coordination framework ensures that construction activities will be properly sequenced and executed efficiently.
While specific timelines have not been publicly announced, the combination of released funds, ongoing studies, and high-level government attention suggests that relief from Dhaula Kuan issue of waterlogging may finally be achievable in the near future, bringing much-needed respite to affected commuters and residents.
