Once it becomes operational, the expressway is projected to significantly cut down travel time between Delhi and Dehradun from approximately six hours to about two-and-a-half hours, providing a more efficient and faster route for commuters.
Ongoing inspections and safety checks
Officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have performed inspections on a 74-kilometre stretch of the project, which includes a 12-kilometre wildlife corridor designed to minimize environmental impacts. Project Director Narendra Singh and his team evaluated progress at various locations in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur district and provided necessary directives for timely completion.
Incorporation of flood mitigation measures
Considering the flooding risk in the Dehradun area during monsoons, specific structural enhancements have been added. Out of the 575 pillars in the elevated section, 24 have been fortified with increased thickness to endure powerful water currents. This elevated stretch, approximately 12 kilometres long, extends from Mohand to Dehradun.
Eco-corridor and trial operations
A 12-kilometre elevated portion between Dat Kali Temple and Ganeshpur has been finalized, with vehicle trials commencing on December 28. This stretch, traversing Rajaji National Park, forms part of Asia’s longest eco-corridor, designed to facilitate uninterrupted wildlife movement.
Significant infrastructure features
The initiative boasts a three-lane tunnel near Dat Kali Temple, built at an estimated cost of ₹1,995 crore. The tunnel has dimensions of 340 metres in length, 11 metres in width, and 7 metres in height. Additional infrastructure includes six animal underpasses, two designated for elephants, 113 other underpasses, 76 kilometres of service roads, 62 bus shelters, 16 entry-exit points, and five railway overbridges.
Total project cost and timeline
This 210-kilometre, six-lane expressway—from Akshardham in Delhi to Dehradun via Saharanpur—is being constructed at an estimated cost of around ₹13,000 crore. Construction commenced in December 2021 and was initially targeted for completion in 2024, though it has encountered delays exceeding a year.
As the project approaches completion, its opening is anticipated to enhance travel efficiency and improve regional connectivity between Delhi, western Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
