India, June 24 -- Built during a period of unprecedented infrastructure expansion, when the Capital was preparing for the 2010 Commonwealth Games and grappling with a surge in vehicle ownership, these structures became the backbone of Delhi's road network. But after years of carrying ever-growing traffic loads, many of the city's busiest flyovers have crossed the 15-year mark, prompting the Delhi government to shift its focus from building new infrastructure to preserving existing assets.

The Public Works Department (PWD) has initiated plans for structural audits of 44 ageing flyovers and bridges across the city, a move officials said will help identify urgent repair requirements and prioritise rehabilitation work.

Officials familiar wi...