As Noida readies 3 gates, locals ask where’s civic infra

Noida: Amid complaints from residents over civic services, the Noida Authority is expediting work on entry gates, which are aimed at boosting the image and beauty of the city.
Three of four such gates will be ready by July-end.
But residents said that the focus should be more on providing basic infrastructure and facilities. “The city requires quality and quantity water, proper electricity supply, better roads, sanitation and drainage. The money spent on beautification of the city is a waste of taxpayers’ money,” said a resident.
However, officials said that the gates, built at a cost of Rs 9.3 crore, are a part of the city development works and will encourage investments.
The gates, that are being constructed at industrial Sectors 157-159, Sector 150 on the Noida Expressway, Kalindi Kunj entry point and near Hindon between Gaur city and Parthala roundabout, come with themes of industrial development to coexist with a green Noida along with a showcase of a developed city comprising metros, flyovers and underpass etc.
Noida Authority CEO Rity Maheshwari said, “While directives have been given to complete the entry gate between Sectors 157-159 by July 10, the one near Kalindi Kunj and Noida-Greater Noida Expressway have been given a deadline to be completed by July 31.”
The structure of the gate at Sectors 157-159 has a leaf-shaped overhead shade on poles on both sides of the road. “The focus is on green development along with industrial growth. It will also give a modern feel to the city,” said SP Singh, senior manager work circle 10 Noida Authority.
Meanwhile, a delay may be expected at the entry gate at Hindon owing to design issues. Mukesh Vaish, senior manager (work circle 6) of Noida Authority, said, “Since the gate will be built on Vikas Marg, its theme will reflect the development mode of the city. This will include elements of metro and signature flyover. It will be 110 metres wide and 80 metres long. The cost of this gate is estimated at Rs 7 crore and has a deadline of December 2021.”