New Delhi-Gurugram, May 2025 – In a major infrastructure boost for the National Capital Region (NCR), the much-awaited Delhi section of the Dwarka Expressway is finally set to open. This development is poised to bring immense relief to thousands of commuters who travel between Delhi and Gurugram daily. With the new segment operational, the traffic load on the highly congested Delhi-Gurugram Expressway is expected to reduce by around 25-30%, cutting down travel time and easing daily bottlenecks.
Constructed at an approximate cost of ₹9,000 crore, this expressway features modern engineering elements, including tunnels and advanced safety systems, making it a landmark in Indian road infrastructure.
Prime Minister’s Inauguration Expected
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has approached the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), requesting a date for the official inauguration of the Delhi segment. Like the Gurugram portion—which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year—the Delhi leg is also likely to be flagged off by the PM. The inauguration event is expected to take place at the Delhi-Gurugram border, ensuring accessibility for attendees from both cities.
Once the date is confirmed, preparations for the opening ceremony will kick off in full swing.
A Faster and Smoother Commute for Thousands
The launch of the Delhi section is anticipated to significantly ease travel, especially during peak evening hours. At present, a short stretch from Sirhaul Border to Mahipalpur can take over two hours due to severe congestion, especially during the wedding season when banquet halls in the vicinity are packed.
Post-launch, travel from Manesar to Palam Airport via the expressway is expected to take no more than 30 minutes, offering a swift, hassle-free alternative for daily travelers and airport-bound vehicles.
Tunnels: Completed and Safety-Checked
A major highlight of the Delhi portion is the construction of two sophisticated tunnels, both of which are now complete and have passed stringent safety inspections.
- Tunnel 1 stretches from Dwarka to the Delhi-Gurugram Expressway near Shiv Murti, measuring approximately 4 km.
- Tunnel 2 runs from Mahipalpur (Shiv Murti) to Palam Airport, covering roughly 2.5 km.
Both tunnels are equipped with high-pressure water mist fire suppression systems, offering enhanced safety in case of emergencies.
Growing Demand for Early Tunnel Access
Local commuters and residents are urging authorities to open the tunnel for public use even before the formal inauguration. Engineers Rajan Kumar and Jai Singh, regular users of the route, highlighted that the traffic buildup during the wedding season—especially between 5 PM to 10 PM—has made daily commuting extremely difficult.
With the area hosting numerous banquet halls and hotels, residents argue that early tunnel access could drastically ease pressure on the existing roads.
Key Project Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Project Cost | ₹9,000 crore |
| Total Length | 29 km (18.9 km in Gurugram, 10.1 km in Delhi) |
| Tunnel Length | ~6.5 km combined |
| Elevated Section | 23 km – India’s first single-pillar expressway |
| Main Contractors | L&T (Gurugram), J Kumar Infraprojects (Delhi) |
| Steel Used | 2 lakh MT – 30x Eiffel Tower |
| Concrete Used | 20 lakh CUM – 6x Burj Khalifa |
| Travel Time (Manesar to Airport) | 30 minutes (estimated post-opening) |
| Fire Safety System | High-pressure water mist in both tunnels |
A Step Toward Sustainable Urban Planning
According to Prof. KK Yadav, a former Chief Town Planner of Haryana and noted environmentalist, the opening of the expressway will not only benefit traffic flow but will also positively impact air quality.
“With up to 30% reduction in traffic load on the existing expressway, pollution levels are bound to drop. It’s a great example of how infrastructure development can align with environmental goals.”
Well-Coordinated Execution Across Two Segments
To streamline the construction process, the project was split into two parts:
- The Gurugram section was constructed by Larsen & Toubro (L&T).
- The Delhi section, including its challenging tunnel infrastructure, was built by J Kumar Infraprojects Ltd.
This division allowed focused attention and efficiency, ensuring timely completion of the work.
Engineering Feat with Global Comparisons
What makes the Dwarka Expressway truly exceptional is its scale and innovation. It’s India’s first expressway built on a single-pillar elevated design. The sheer volume of materials used sets it apart:
- Steel: Equivalent to 30 Eiffel Towers
- Concrete: Six times the volume used in Burj Khalifa
Such accomplishments underscore the expressway’s status as a world-class infrastructure marvel.
Why the Opening Can’t Wait Any Longer
Despite the Gurugram stretch being operational since 2023, commuters continue to face massive delays, especially between Dhaula Kuan and Sirhaul Border. While traffic near Manesar has eased slightly, the Delhi-Gurugram Expressway remains congested.
The NHAI is fully aware of the ground situation and is expediting coordination with the PMO to confirm the launch date at the earliest. Until then, public demand for partial access to the new tunnels continues to grow louder.
