Mohali foot overbridges dubbed 'white elephants' as utility concerns rise

The municipal authorities in Mohali have recently completed a pair of foot overbridges intended to facilitate pedestrian movement across busy roads. The structures, positioned at key intersections, were inaugurated with the promise of smoother, safer crossings for commuters.

Soon after opening, commuters and residents began referring to the bridges as "white elephants," a term commonly used for projects that are expensive yet underutilized. Observers note that foot traffic on the overbridges remains low, raising doubts about the cost‑benefit balance of the investment.

The growing criticism has sparked a broader debate on the planning and execution of urban infrastructure in the city. Stakeholders are calling for a review of the bridges' design, location, and projected usage to ensure that future projects better align with actual commuter needs.