Noida: UP Industries Minister Satish Mahana inaugurates 640-metre NTPC underpass

The much awaited 640-metres NTPC underpass at the intersection of sectors 24, 25A, 32 and 33A and the 25 acre Herbal and Medicinal Park in sector 91 was inaugurated on Wednesday by UP Industries Minister Satish Mahana in the presence of MP Mahesh Sharma, MLA Pankaj Singh Authority CEO Alok Tandon, Kiran Nadar founder and chairperson, Kiran Nadar Museum of Art and other officials.

The entry gate of the herbal and medicinal park was painted with bright murals. The work was completed under Rajeev Tyagi, general manager of Noida Authority and in-charge of work circles 1 to 5.

On explaining the details Mr Tyagi said that the artwork 'Kalpavriksha: The Sacred Wishing Tree' — stretching across the length of the underpass on both sides — showcases the rare Kalpavriksha paintings by Delhi-based artist duo Laxman Singh and Kunal Jain from Jamia Millia Islamia.

"It is a unique public art initiative for Noida. The Kiran Nadar Museum of Art in Sector 126 has collaborated with the Noida Authority for a series of installations at various intersections across the city. The first project under the association is a painted mural installation for the NTPC underpass," Mr Tyagi said.

"Earlier Noida authority had planned to use tiles posting over Rs one crore. With this exercise, we have not only saved money but also added more colours in Noida's world-class infrastructure," Mr Tyagi further said.

It is a tribute to India's tribal art. The installation highlights the message of living in harmony with nature which is an integral part of Indian culture said the duo in a statement.