Underpass will turn Rose Garden into Sector 17’s backyard

Work has already started on a key aspect of transforming Sector 17 into a cultural hub – the underpass connecting Rose Garden at Sector 16 with the plaza next door. People will be able to go from the tranquility of Rose Garden to the buzzing events at the Plaza seamlessly, without having to suffer the unending traffic on Jan Marg.

The authorities believe that both sides of Jan Marg have the potential to attract tourists, especially after they are connected. The objective is that the Rose Garden should be seen as an extension of Sector 17 and the numerous activities taking place there.

Although it is being designed as a pedestrian underpass, the designers have decided to include in it space for cyclists and electric vehicles so that people of all ages can use it and are not forced to avoid it if they have a cycle or are unable to walk for long periods.

“The underpass is not only about connectivity and mobility,” said an official of the UT administration. “It will also play a key role in developing the North Plaza into a cultural hub. As soon as you step out of the underpass, you will be surrounded with a slew of happenings. Several events have already been planned here in the hope of rejuvenating Sector 17. We don’t want it to be a dull place anymore.”

Moreover, since the underpass will also connect Rose Garden to the commercial hub of Sector 17, visitors will have several other options to keep themselves entertained, besides enjoying cultural events, the planners say.

The underpass will also have a special area dedicated to both students and professionals who will be allowed to paint, design murals and will also have a space to exhibit sculptures. For all practical purposes, the underpass will act as a cultural corner as well.

“We will also put on display information about the unique heritage of the city, like the Capitol Complex which has been declared a Unesco World Heritage site. Other related information about Chandigarh will also be on display,” an official said. “Visitors here will get a peek into unique aspects of the architecture that Le Corbusier built even as they stroll between sectors. A special stretch has been earmarked for the information boards.”

With constriction work going on, traffic on Jan Marg opposite Rose Garden has been blocked. This is one of the busiest stretches in the city during peak traffic hours. Officials say that it will take about four months to open up the stretch again. Work on the entire underpass is expected to be completed in about six months, while the finishing touches will take another two months. According to one estimate, people should be able to use the underpass by the end of 2018.