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Experts credit Noida’s robust infrastructure to Greenfield planning, where roads, drains, lights and footpaths were built first, before private developers began projects
Gurugram’s road network further complicates matters, lacking a clear grid and resulting in frequent traffic jams. (PTI/File)
Heavy rains have lashed Delhi-NCR in recent days, with the the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing an alert for Wednesday over possible waterlogging and traffic snarls. But while Noida enjoys a cool, pleasant atmosphere under the downpour, neighbouring Gurugram struggles with severe disruptions, highlighting a stark contrast in how the two cities experience the monsoon.
On Monday, Delhi-NCR recorded nearly 100 mm of rainfall in a single day, triggering massive traffic jams across Gurugram’s main roads. Commuters returning from work were stuck for hours, a recurring scene in Gurugram during the rainy season, highlighting issues in the city’s urban planning and development.
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Noida Was Built First, People Settled Later
In contrast, Noida experiences fewer problems during the monsoon. The city’s foundation was laid in 1975 during the Emergency, initiated by Sanjay Gandhi, son of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, with the aim of relocating industries outside Delhi.
Developed as an industrial township under the Uttar Pradesh Industrial Area Development Act of 1976, Noida has become an economic power of the state.
Urban planning experts attribute Noida’s successful infrastructure to its Greenfield planning, where comprehensive infrastructure, including roads, sewers, drains, street lights, and footpaths, was established before private developers began construction.
Approximately 50 years ago, 14,915 hectares (36,841 acres) of land from 50 villages were acquired for Noida, which has now expanded to 81 villages and 20,316 hectares.
According to an Indian Express report, urban researcher Mukta Naik said that the balanced and sustainable road and drainage network in Noida results from its planned development.
The Birth Of Gurugram: A Story Unlike Noida’s
On the other hand, Gurugram’s development followed a different path, relying on the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Since the 1970s, the Haryana government enacted several laws allowing private companies to acquire land from various locations to build townships, with DLF being a prominent name in this process. However, land acquisition was inconsistent, leading to uneven plots, incomplete roads, and disjointed infrastructure.
Gurugram’s geographical location exacerbates its problems during rains. The Aravalli hills on the southern end of the city naturally channel water towards the lower northern area, reaching Najafgarh Lake in West Delhi. Unplanned urbanisation and the disappearance of natural drains have caused water stagnation.
The city’s road network further complicates matters, lacking a clear grid and resulting in frequent traffic jams, worsened by waterlogging during rains.
Experts assert that while Noida’s success is due to its planned development, Gurugram is paying the price for its rapid and disorganised expansion.
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