New Delhi: Delhi govt’s Public Works Department (PWD) has planned to develop a world-class pedestrian skywalk at the Nirman Vihar metro intersection on Vikas Marg to improve commuter safety and streamline pedestrian movement at the congested junction in east Delhi.A four-arm network, extending towards Nirman Vihar metro station, Vikas Marg East, Patparganj Road and the adjoining residential/local sector, will converge at a central hub, with a total centreline length of around 240 metres. According to preliminary design details prepared by PWD, each arm will be approximately 60 metres long and have a corridor width of three metres.The busy traffic junction witnesses heavy movement of vehicles as well as pedestrians throughout the day. Its proximity to the metro station, commercial establishments, residential areas and connecting roads makes it an important transit point and it is common to see commuters frequently crossing busy carriageways to reach the station and nearby areas.The mix of heavy vehicular traffic, multiple road approaches and pedestrian movement creates potential safety risks and leads to congestion at the junction. A skywalk will not only segregate pedestrian movement from road traffic and reduce chances of accidents, but it will also ease traffic congestion, said officials, adding that the central hub will allow pedestrians to cross the junction from all sides.The steel-framed structure will be developed independently of existing buildings and infrastructure and will stand around 5.5 to 6 metres above the road level. This will ensure uninterrupted movement of vehicles underneath while avoiding any additional structural load on surrounding foundations, said officials.The facility will have weather-protected walkways with roof and side glazing, anti-skid flooring, LED lighting and CCTV surveillance to provide a safer and more comfortable commuting experience, particularly during peak traffic hours and adverse weather conditions, they added.Each of the four arms will have a two-metre-wide staircase, while lift towers, approximately 12 metres high, will provide access for senior citizens, persons with disabilities and commuters carrying heavy luggage. The arm to Nirman Vihar metro station will allow seamless interchange between road-level access points and the metro network.PWD has invited bids to engage a consultant for the project. “Detailed topographic surveys, utility detection and other technical assessments will be undertaken before the design is finalised. The project will also require statutory clearances from the road and metro authorities,” said an official.