Delhi’s Infra Boost: NHAI Prepares DPRs for Three New Expressway Link Roads

NEW DELHI: Following the BJP government’s renewed infrastructure push after its return to power in Delhi, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for three new link roads aimed at easing congestion on arterial roads. While the initial estimated cost of the three projects was pegged at around ₹9,100 crore, the exact figure will be determined after finalising the DPRs.

DPRs Expected in 6-7 Months

Officials confirmed that the work plan and fund allocation would follow the completion of DPRs. “We aim to complete the DPRs within 6-7 months to ensure work begins soon after. The exact alignment and design will be finalised once the reports are ready,” said an official.

Key Projects in the Pipeline

1. Linking UER-II to Delhi-Katra Expressway:
   
   A 20-km link road is planned to connect the Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II) via the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway to the Delhi-Katra Expressway. This will provide seamless connectivity for vehicles from Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab, facilitating direct access to the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway and IGI Airport. The initial estimated cost for this project was around ₹2,500 crore, with the proposal submitted by seven BJP MPs from Delhi just before the assembly elections.
   
2. Connecting UER-II to Tronica City via Delhi-Dehradun Expressway:
   
   The second project involves a 17-km link connecting UER-II (near Alipur) to Tronica City, passing through the under-construction Delhi-Dehradun Expressway. This route will ease travel for vehicles from Rajasthan and Haryana heading towards Dehradun and also reduce vehicle load on the Ring Road. According to initial estimates, the road could cut travel time from 90 minutes to 45 minutes, ensuring smoother access to IGI Airport via UER-II and the Dwarka Expressway.
   
3. Bypass for East Delhi, Connecting Delhi-Dehradun Expressway to Noida:
   
   The third major project is a 35-km corridor that will act as a bypass for East Delhi, connecting the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway with Noida. This will facilitate non-stop travel to Noida for commuters from north, north-west, and south-west Delhi, significantly decongesting the capital’s roads.
   

Govt Prioritizing Decongestion, But Experts Call for Holistic Planning

Officials emphasized that these new road projects are a high priority, in line with the Centre’s commitment to reducing congestion in Delhi. However, they also stressed the need for a more comprehensive approach to urban mobility.

“While these projects will improve connectivity, there’s an urgent need to expand mass transit systems across NCR. Roads can only accommodate a limited number of vehicles, and a long-term solution lies in strengthening public transport infrastructure,” said an official.

With DPRs expected in the next 6-7 months, these link roads are poised to reshape Delhi’s traffic landscape, enhancing connectivity while potentially reducing commute times for millions of residents.

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