Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway today, a significant infrastructure project aimed at reducing travel time and improving connectivity between Delhi and Uttarakhand. The Prime Minister will first visit the historic Dat Kali Temple for prayers before the inauguration ceremony. The 210-km expressway, constructed at a cost of around Rs 12,000 crore, will link Akshardham Temple in Delhi to Dehradun, passing through key towns in Uttar Pradesh.
The expressway is expected to cut down the travel time between Delhi and Dehradun from six hours to approximately 2.5 hours, providing a faster and more efficient travel option. It is designed for high-speed travel with seven interchanges, two rail overbridges, and 10 major bridges. Additionally, 14 wayside amenities including rest areas, food courts, fuel stations, and washrooms will be available for passenger convenience along the route.
Notably, the project incorporates environmentally sensitive design elements, particularly in areas like Rajaji National Park. To minimize disruption to wildlife, a 12-km elevated corridor has been built, including two large elephant underpasses and six additional animal crossings. Once operational, the expressway is expected to alleviate congestion on existing routes, enhance regional connectivity, and boost travel, tourism, and economic activities between Delhi and Uttarakhand.
