New Delhi: The 5.5-km stretch of Munak Canal, from the Outer Ring Road to its confluence with the Najafgarh Drain near Inderlok metro station, is set for a transformation as Delhi govt has identified seven development works to revive and beautify the stretch.The plan includes reviving the dry section of the canal, constructing Chhath ghats, developing inspection roads along both the banks, building bridges, widening existing roads and landscaping and beautification.The stretch has been neglected for years after raw water was diverted towards the Haiderpur Water Treatment Plant, leaving it dry, said a senior official. Over time, silt accumulated in the canal, and its embankments got dilapidated.The Rekha Gupta-led govt has prepared a comprehensive plan to address these issues and develop the area into a public space.Construction of the Chhath ghats is a key component of the project. Work on a 3-km stretch in the Shalimar Bagh assembly constituency has been completed, while work is on at another 2.5-km stretch in Wazirpur.The ghats are intended to provide devotees from Purvanchal and other parts of Delhi a safe, clean and organised space for Chhath Puja. They will also be available for Durga Puja, Ganesh Puja and other religious and cultural celebrations. The area is also planned as a recreational space for residents throughout the year that can accommodate around 32,000 people at a time.Connectivity along the canal is another major part of the plan. Inspection roads are being developed along both banks, between the Outer Ring Road and Prembari Bridge. Around 62% of the work on the right-bank road has been completed. The roads are expected to provide alternative connectivity to residents and commuters, besides improving access for canal maintenance.The existing bridge near Singalpur village is being upgraded into a double-lane bridge. A single-lane bridge near Haiderpur village is also being replaced with a double-lane structure. In addition, a six-lane bridge is planned near Singalpur to connect Shalimar Bagh with Pitampura.The plan also includes boundary walls along both sides of the canal, from the Outer Ring Road to Inderlok metro station.
