Delhi is set to receive a major infrastructure boost with the approval of a ₹24,000 crore plan aimed at tackling the city's persistent traffic congestion and reducing pollution. This ambitious initiative, a joint effort by the Central and Delhi governments, encompasses nine major infrastructure projects, signaling a significant step towards transforming Delhi into a clean, green, and world-class city.
The approved projects include a mix of tunnels, flyovers, metro extensions, and new roads strategically designed to alleviate traffic bottlenecks, shorten travel times, and enhance overall connectivity across Delhi-NCR. Construction is expected to begin in phases this year, with an anticipated completion date of 2027.
One of the key components of this plan is the construction of a five-kilometer tunnel connecting Shiv Murti on the Dwarka Expressway to Nelson Mandela Road in Vasant Kunj. This ₹3,500 crore project, to be undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), will consist of two underground tubes, each with three lanes, providing a seamless, signal-free route between South Delhi and Dwarka/Gurugram. Equipped with modern facilities such as electro-mechanical systems, ventilation, fire safety infrastructure, CCTV surveillance, control rooms, emergency exits, and cross-passages, the tunnel is projected to significantly decongest critical traffic points like Rangpuri, Dhaula Kuan, Rao Tula Ram Marg, and National Highway 48. It will also serve as a vital link between Central and East Delhi and major national highways and expressways, including the Delhi Expressway (NE-5), NH-44, NH-10, the Delhi-Jaipur Highway (NH-48), and the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway (NH-709B), via the Urban Extension Road and Dwarka Expressway.
In addition to the tunnel, the plan includes several other significant projects:
Furthermore, the NHAI has sanctioned ₹150 crore for the construction of Road Over Bridges (ROBs) and Under Bridges (RUBs) to remove bottlenecks near railway crossings.
The Delhi government is also considering a toll-based elevated Ring Road to bypass gridlock. The Public Works Department has been directed to hire a consultant to prepare a detailed project report and work on a toll tax model for the stretch.
These infrastructure projects are not only aimed at easing traffic congestion but also at reducing pollution and improving the overall environment in Delhi. The NHAI is adopting eco-friendly practices, such as using inert solid waste and construction debris from Delhi's landfills in road construction. The Ministry of Road, Transport & Highways has also adopted sustainable construction practices, including the use of plastic waste and fly ash in major projects.
With these projects, the government aims to provide long-term relief from traffic congestion, making Delhi's roads safer and faster while also addressing air quality concerns.
