Archive · 4 Sep 2026
Delhi Approves Multi-Utility Ducts to End Repeated Road Digging
Delhi often has to dig up roads when different utility agencies install or repair their lines.
The government wants to place many of these lines inside shared underground corridors called multi-utility ducts.
These ducts could carry electricity, water, gas and fire-hydrant networks.
They would make repairs and future expansion easier.
Special designs will include ventilation, fire safety and access for workers.
The plan will first be tested on two roads in Chandni Chowk.
One section is 310 metres long and the other is 560 metres long.
Officials will study the pilot before expanding the system to other parts of Delhi.
Delhi has approved a citywide plan for shared underground multi-utility ducts.
The ducts may carry electricity, water, gas, fire-hydrant networks and other essential services.
A pilot will cover 310 metres of Esplanade Road and 560 metres of Mor Sarai Road in Chandni Chowk.
The system aims to reduce repeated road digging, traffic disruption and inconvenience to residents.
A technical committee will guide the design, construction and future expansion of the ducts.
- Who
- The Delhi government, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, approved the plan.
- What
- The government approved a citywide multi-utility duct system for shared underground utility corridors.
- When
- The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting, with details announced by officials on Thursday; pilot work is expected to begin soon.
- Where
- Delhi, beginning with Esplanade Road and Mor Sarai Road in Chandni Chowk.
- Why
- To reduce repeated road digging, traffic disruption, public inconvenience, accidental utility damage and road repairs.
- Project
- Citywide multi-utility underground duct system
- Pilot location
- Chandni Chowk
- Esplanade Road stretch
- 310 metres
- Mor Sarai Road stretch
- 560 metres
- Potential services
- Electricity, water, gas, fire-hydrant networks and other essential utilities
- Design provisions
- Ventilation, fire safety, maintenance access and emergency response
- Oversight
- A technical committee involving discoms, the Delhi Jal Board, the Delhi Public Works Department and other agencies
