The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, poised to significantly enhance travel and infrastructure is set to open in January 2025. Spanning 210 km, the expressway will slash travel time from 6.5 hours to just 2.5 hours, transforming the region's connectivity.
Developed under the Bharatmala Pariyojana initiative, the project is spearheaded by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) with an investment of Rs 13,000 crore, aimed at upgrading India’s road infrastructure. The project is being executed in multiple stages, with the first phase covering 31.6 km from Akshardham to Khekra, including an 18-km elevated track. This phase, with a budget of Rs 1,323 crore, is nearly complete, with testing and finalisation expected by December 2024.
The expressway will pass through key towns like Baghpat, Shamli, and Saharanpur, significantly improving connectivity in these regions. Notably, a 12-km elevated wildlife corridor will be constructed over Rajaji National Park, preserving local wildlife while ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow. Safety features are prioritised with plans for trauma centres, ambulances, fire brigades, and sturdy railings with wildlife fencing to minimise accidents.
Highlighting its significance as a progressive project under the Bharatmala Pariyojana initiative, the expressway will incorporate modern infrastructure such as bus bays, truck stops, interchanges, and rest areas with recreational facilities, offering enhanced convenience for travelers.