Dwarka Expressway tunnel trial begins, Delhi-Gurugram commute to get shorter

Representative picture

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) launched a trial run on Friday for its newly constructed tunnels and underpasses along the Delhi stretch of the Dwarka Expressway, marking a key step in easing congestion on the busy Delhi-Gurugram corridor.

The 5.1 km tunnel, split into two segments, is set to improve connectivity between the Dwarka Expressway, Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) and National Highway (NH) 48. The main 3.6 km section is an eight-lane tunnel leading directly to the airport, while a 1.5 km two-lane tunnel branches off towards Gurugram, TOI reported, citing officials.

For now, the trial runs will operate daily between noon and 3 pm, allowing authorities to monitor traffic flow before a full-scale launch on June 5. The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways stated that the stretch includes a shallow tunnel linking Dwarka and Yashobhumi to the airport, along with underpasses for smoother right turns towards Gurugram. Commuters from Terminal 3 will also benefit from dedicated underpasses leading to Sirhaul.

Built with advanced engineering, the tunnel features CCTV surveillance, emergency exits and a dedicated control room to ensure safety. However, certain restrictions apply during the trial phase. Only vehicles under 4.5 metres in height are permitted, while two-wheelers, three-wheelers and vehicles carrying flammable materials like oil tankers are barred.

The Rs 9,000 crore Dwarka Expressway project spans 29 km, with 10.1 km in Delhi and the remaining 18.9 km in Haryana. Once fully operational, it is expected to reduce traffic congestion in Delhi-NCR and also improving connectivity to the IGI Airport from Gurugram, Manesar, Sohna and Jaipur.

Adding a cultural touch, the tunnel’s interior is decorated with murals representing states like Punjab, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh and Manipur. Beyond aesthetics, the project promises enhanced connectivity to key areas, including Vasant Kunj and Dwarka, while streamlining traffic flow towards northern destinations like Sonipat, Panipat and Chandigarh.