Exciting developments are on the horizon for frequent travelers between Delhi and Dehradun. By December 2024, the journey between these two cities could be completed in just 2.5 hours, thanks to the upcoming Delhi-Dehradun Expressway. This major infrastructure project, spearheaded by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), is set to significantly reduce travel time and enhance connectivity in the region.
Expressway to Open by End of 2024
The NHAI has confirmed plans to open the expressway by the end of this year, a timeline recently communicated to Prime Minister Narendra Modi by officials from the road transport ministry. This accelerated schedule aims to ensure that the expressway becomes operational as soon as possible, providing a faster and more efficient route for travelers heading to Dehradun.
Haridwar Link Expected by Mid-2025
In addition to the expressway, a connecting link to Haridwar is also under development, with completion expected by May 2025. During a recent meeting, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of keeping the project on track, urging the ministry to adhere to the timeline and ensure timely delivery of this critical infrastructure.
Project Progress and Timeline
According to sources, all land acquisition and related issues have been resolved, allowing the NHAI to focus on completing the remaining work within the next four months. However, the Haridwar link, an extension of the original project, will require an additional five months to be fully operational.
Significant Reduction in Travel Time
Once the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway is operational, travel time from Akshardham in Delhi to Dehradun will be slashed to approximately 2.5 hours, down from the current six hours. The journey from Delhi to Haridwar will also see a significant reduction, with travel time expected to be around two hours.
Notable Features of the Expressway
The expressway is set to include several notable features, such as Asia’s longest elevated wildlife corridor, spanning 12 kilometers, and an animal underpass designed to minimize human-wildlife conflicts in the Rajaji National Park and Shiwalik Reserve forest areas. These features underscore the project’s commitment to balancing development with environmental conservation.
First Leg to Be Operational by November 2024
If reports are accurate, the first segment of the expressway, running from Akshardham to the Eastern Peripheral Expressway (EPE) interchange, is likely to be operational by November this year. This section will traverse several neighborhoods in Delhi and parts of Uttar Pradesh, promising to alleviate daily traffic congestion and improve commute times for residents.
Multiple Entry and Exit Points for Seamless Travel
The expressway will feature seven entry points for vehicles traveling from Delhi to Uttar Pradesh, including Geeta Colony, Akshardham, and Sonia Vihar. Exits will be strategically located at Sonia Vihar, Khajuri Chowk, and Vijay Vihar, ensuring smooth and convenient access for commuters.
Conclusion
The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway represents a transformative leap forward in regional connectivity, promising to drastically reduce travel time and enhance the overall commuting experience. As this ambitious project nears completion, it is poised to become a cornerstone of transportation in Northern India, offering commuters a faster, more efficient, and environmentally conscious route between Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar.