G20 preparations reach the finish mark, PWD conducts dry runs

The PWD has redeveloped and beautified about 40 key stretches across Delhi. Of these, the focus has been on ten key stretches situated in Central and New Delhi including ITPO area, Bhairon Marg, Purana Qila, airport road, Rajghat, ISBT, ITO, Ring Road and others.

“All work, ranging from installation of fountains, plantation work and electrical work has been completed, including the finishing touches. We submitted our ‘OK’ report a few days ago,” said an official who is looking after the Ring Road stretch.

Another official from the electrical wing said: “All street lights, facade lighting, fountains and tree lighters are all lighted and functioning. The street lights, decorative lamps and drop lights are timer-based. It lights up as soon as it gets dark.”

Further, the PWD will conduct routine checks to ensure cleanliness of footpaths, kerbstones, backup sets of motors, pumps, lights, wires, functioning of pump houses and equipment to deal with waterlogging. Officials have been given instructions that Quick Response Teams (QRTs) should be active and stationed near Delhi Traffic Police booths. Control rooms should be functioning 24 hours, cameras and the ground situation should be monitored, and all employees working on roads should wear safety gear and reflective jackets at all times.

The QRT teams will remain on field and coordinate with traffic police, fire and ambulance. The control room will be manned by an officer of the rank not lower than executive engineer till 15 September on 24X7 basis.

The PWD will be on high alert during the Summit’s duration – September 8 to 10. Only officials and staff with valid permission will be stationed at various locations. Further, field maintenance vans will be stationed near important areas. Nodal officers have been asked to ensure that all national flags of G20 countries are hoisted with necessary protocol.