New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated two major highway projects in Delhi — the Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II) and the Dwarka Expressway. These projects mark a significant step to improve connectivity across the National Capital Region (NCR). Together, they cost Rs 11,000 crore and aim to reduce traffic congestion. They also ease travel for commuters, traders, and farmers.
Addressing the event at Rohini, PM Modi said, “Delhi has become a shining example of development across the country.” He added that the projects will save travel time, improve industrial connectivity, and enhance residents’ quality of life.
The UER-II spans 54.21 km in Delhi and 21.5 km in Haryana. It includes tunnels, underpasses, and elevated sections. Officials estimate it will reduce travel time from Indira Gandhi International Airport to southwest and northwest Delhi by 40 to 60 percent. Additionally, the corridor connects Chandigarh to Gurugram and IGI Airport. This benefits areas like Karala, Alipur, and Bawana.
The Dwarka Expressway covers a 10.1 km stretch in Delhi. It provides a direct link from IGI Airport to UER-II, Dwarka, and Gurugram. The route includes a tunnel near Sector 21 to ensure smooth traffic flow. It also connects to Delhi Metro’s Blue and Orange Lines, the upcoming Bijwasan railway station, and the Dwarka bus cluster depot. As a result, travel in Dwarka, Mahipalpur, and Vasant Kunj has become faster.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari praised PM Modi’s vision for decongesting Delhi. He noted that these projects showcase world-class infrastructure. Additionally, two million tonnes of waste from Ghazipur landfill were used in UER-II construction. This reduced landfill height by seven meters and lowered construction costs.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta called the projects a “historic gift.” She said they will reduce pollution, improve traffic flow, and strengthen long-distance connectivity with Delhi-Jaipur National Highway, KMP Expressway, and Delhi-Mumbai Expressway.
Finally, experts note that these highways will significantly ease congestion. However, they recommend ongoing monitoring to prevent bottlenecks from shifting elsewhere.
