The Delhi High Court on Wednesday directed the concerned authorities to submit a finalised plan for the construction of a foot-over-bridge (FOB) to assist soldiers of the Rajputana Rifles, who currently have to cross a foul-smelling drain to access their parade ground.
A division bench comprising Justices Parthiba M. Singh and Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora was hearing a case initiated suo motu after media reports highlighted the inconvenience faced by the soldiers, who are compelled to traverse a “smelly trail” from their barracks to the training area.
Expressing concern over the delay, the bench instructed the Public Works Department (PWD), the Delhi Traffic Police, and the Delhi Cantonment Board to hold a joint meeting and finalise the construction details of the foot-over-bridge.
“Let a plan be finalised for the construction of the FOB,” the bench said, further seeking a detailed report outlining the design, estimated budget, and timeline for the project.
The court noted that although approval for the bridge had been granted earlier, the construction was yet to begin. The PWD has been tasked with funding the project. The bench also observed that the Cantonment Board could, if necessary, seek assistance from Army engineering agencies to expedite the work.
The matter has been posted for further hearing after submission of the finalised plan.
