The Centre has approved a number of projects totalling Rs 240 billion to improve traffic flow and lower pollution in Delhi and the surrounding areas. One of these projects is a 5 km tunnel connecting Nelson Mandela Road (Vasant Kunj) and Shiv Murti-Mahipalpur (Dwarka Expressway). The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will build the tunnel, which is expected to cost Rs 35 billion.
The project’s work will start early in the upcoming year. It will provide a signal-free alternate route between South Delhi and Dwarka/ Gurugram and will consist of two subterranean tubes, each with three lanes, for a total of six lanes. Modern amenities including CCTV surveillance, ventilation, fire safety, electro-mechanical systems, control rooms, emergency exits, and cross-passages will also be included in the tunnel.
Traffic on Rangpuri, Dhaula Kuan, Rao Tula Ram Marg, and National Highway 48 (NH-48) will be reduced significantly upon the completion of the tunnel.
Additionally, through the Urban Extension Road (UER) and Dwarka expressway, it will act as a vital link between Central/ East Delhi and several important roads and highways, such as the Delhi Expressway (NE-5), NH-44, NH-10, Delhi-Jaipur Highway (NH-48), and Delhi-Dehradun Highway (NH-709B).