'Smart road' to be developed in Karnal city

A 3.5-km stretch of road from Mahatma Gandhi Chowk to Noor Mahal Chowk in Karnal will be developed as a "smart road". A draft of the detailed project report (DPR) has been prepared and will be shared with the departments concerned involved in the project. This project is an initiative of Karnal Smart City Limited (KSCL), and the Karnal Municipal Corporation (KMC) will execute it.As per the authorities, this project aims at providing better a quality road, smooth traffic flow and improved lighting and visibility. Solar panels will be installed along this road to generate electricity for electric vehicle charging stations.

“To prepare the DPR, I have conducted meetings with officials from various departments involved in this project. A consultant agency is finalising the report and a draft will be shared with departments for their feedback,” said Vaishali Sharma, Commissioner, KMC. The work is expected to commence by February next year, she said.

About the objective of this step, she said, "The road will be smart in a way that it will align with citizen convenience and environmental sustainability. Apart from enhancing visibility on road, smart LED lights powered by solar energy, charging stations for electric vehicles, dedicated ambulance lanes, smart bus shelters and wi-fi zones, eco-friendly amenities such as treehouses for birds, roadside libraries, smart zebra crossings, speed breakers and parking spaces will be developed."

Departments have been instructed to relocate electricity poles and telephone wires to ensure that no overhead wiring is visible. Measures to prevent waterlogging have also been planned, she added.

"The road’s design will comply with road safety standards and include footpaths, cycling tracks, underground wiring and seating arrangements to enhance functionality and aesthetics," she said. She said the features would significantly improve the road’s utility and appeal.