Jaipur: Relief is finally in sight for commuters who endured years of traffic congestion at Darrah Nullah on the Kota–Jhalawar National Highway (NH-52). The Central govt granted administrative and financial approval for the construction of a new Railway Under Bridge (RUB) near Arch Bridge No. 148, between Kanwarpura and Darrah railway stations. The project, estimated to cost Rs 9.98 crore, will be executed by the West Central Railway as a deposit work. The RUB will be constructed at KM 297.7 on NH-52 and is expected to significantly ease traffic flow between Kota and Jhalawar. Construction is scheduled to begin shortly, with targeted completion within stipulated timeframe. The eight-km stretch through Darrah Nullah — a narrow, single-lane passage wedged between the broader four-lane highway — long posed a serious threat to commuters, with frequent accidents, prolonged traffic jams, and seasonal waterlogging. Rajesh Soni, a frequent traveller, said, “Traffic on this route increased as it connects Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Heavy vehicle movement is common, and traffic jams lasting up to 12 hours have been reported here.” Despite the commencement of toll collection at Mandana and Bheed Mandi (Rs 165 and Rs 85, respectively), no structural improvements were made. Agencies including the NHAI, PWD, and the forest department continued shifting responsibility. Since the stretch falls within the Mukundra Tiger Reserve, the forest department raised objections to any major construction without proper clearance. A four-lane elevated road was earlier proposed but failed to gain approval.
