The long-awaited Harmilap Nagar Railway Underpass (RUB-123) project has entered its final preparation stage. The Chandigarh Administration has transferred the remaining funds to the Northern Railway, clearing the path for construction to begin. This development comes after several years of delay, promising significant relief for commuters traveling between Mohali, Zirakpur, and Chandigarh.
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When will the construction work start and what is the project cost?
Construction work on the railway underpass is scheduled to commence in May 2026. The total revised cost of the project is estimated at ₹12.81 crore. This expenditure is shared almost equally between the Indian Railways and the UT Chandigarh Administration, with each contributing approximately ₹6.40 crore. The Chandigarh Administration recently released its final installment of ₹4.40 crore following an urgent request from the Railways. Northern Railway officials confirmed the receipt of the total amount and stated that the tender process is already moving forward.
Key benefits and timeline of the RUB-123 project
The underpass is expected to solve major traffic congestion issues that have plagued the region for years. Once the work is allotted, the project has a projected completion time of 12 months. The underpass will provide a smoother commute for thousands of residents in the following areas:
- Raipur Kalan, Mauli Jagran, and Vikas Nagar in Chandigarh.
- Baltana, Zirakpur, and Dhakoli in Mohali.
- Various sectors and connecting routes in Panchkula.
The project was initially proposed in 2017 but faced significant hurdles regarding land acquisition and fund deposits. Land acquisition for approximately 0.74 acres in Raipur Kalan village was notified in 2025, and the land is now being handed over to the Railways for the start of physical work on site.