PM Modi to inaugurate Delhi–Dehradun Expressway on April 14: know the features of this ₹12,000 crore highway

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway on April 14, a 210-km high-speed corridor connecting Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Built at an estimated cost of ₹12,000 crore, the expressway is expected to reduce travel time between Delhi and Dehradun from around 6.5 hours to nearly 2.5 hours, easing congestion on key routes such as the Delhi–Meerut corridor.

High-speed corridor to improve regional connectivity

The expressway begins near Akshardham Temple in Delhi and passes through Baghpat, Baraut, Shamli, and Saharanpur before reaching Dehradun. Designed as a six-lane access-controlled highway, it allows vehicles to travel at speeds of up to 100 km/h.

Officials said the project will significantly improve connectivity between the national capital and Uttarakhand, benefiting both daily commuters and tourists.

Key infrastructure features and interchanges

The corridor includes seven interchanges, two rail overbridges, 10 major bridges, and 14 wayside amenities to improve commuter convenience and safety.

A key highlight of the project is a 12-km elevated stretch passing through Rajaji National Park, designed to minimise disruption to wildlife movement.

Wildlife protection measures integrated into design

To ensure ecological safety, the expressway includes two 200-metre elephant underpasses and six dedicated animal crossings, allowing free movement of wildlife and reducing the risk of road accidents.

Link to pilgrimage routes and regional highways

The expressway also includes a spur connecting to Haridwar and will integrate with the Char Dham Highway network, improving access to major pilgrimage destinations and hill stations in Uttarakhand and neighbouring regions.