New Delhi: In a major boost to connectivity, the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway will be opened to the public on April 14, 2026, significantly reducing travel time between the two cities from around six hours to just 2.5 hours.
The 210–213 km long expressway, which begins near Akshardham and passes through Baghpat, Shamli, and Saharanpur before reaching Dehradun, is now fully ready for use. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the project on April 14.
The expressway is designed as a six-lane, access-controlled green highway and is expected to ease congestion in several Delhi areas, including Bhajanpura, by providing smoother connectivity and alternative routes.
One of the key highlights of the project is a 12-km elevated wildlife corridor built over Rajaji National Park, making it one of the largest such corridors in Asia. The design ensures minimal disturbance to wildlife while maintaining high-speed connectivity.
The project, developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) at an estimated cost of around ₹12,000 crore, also features advanced infrastructure including AI-enabled CCTV surveillance systems for traffic monitoring and safety enforcement.
Speed limits on the expressway have been set at 80–100 kmph for cars, while heavier vehicles are restricted to 50–60 kmph. Overspeeding will attract automatic e-challans through the intelligent monitoring system.
Toll operations are expected to begin soon, with an estimated cost of around ₹1,000 for a round trip. Annual toll passes will also be applicable for regular users.
Officials say the expressway will not only reduce travel time but also lead to significant savings in fuel consumption and improved road safety. It is expected to benefit tourists traveling to Dehradun and Mussoorie, enabling weekend trips to be completed comfortably within a few hours.
