New Delhi: Construction of a key bypass project aimed at easing traffic congestion in Dehradun and improving regional connectivity is progressing steadily, with around 44 per cent of the work completed, according to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
The 12-kilometre-long greenfield, four-lane access-controlled highway is being developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) at an estimated cost of ₹716 crore and is slated for completion by April 2027.
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) said the bypass will link Jhajhra to the Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor near the Asharori check post, connecting further to the Paonta Sahib–Ballupur section of NH-7.
Planned as an alternate south-western route, it is expected to divert through traffic away from the city centre, helping reduce congestion and pollution levels.
Once operational, the corridor will improve connectivity to key locations such as the Selaqui industrial area, Vikasnagar and Herbertpur in Uttarakhand, along with Paonta Sahib in Himachal Pradesh. It will also strengthen links with northern states like Haryana, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh via the economic corridor.
The project incorporates sustainability features, with a design speed of 100 kmph and regulated speeds of 80 kmph in select stretches to limit environmental impact. The right of way has been reduced to 30 metres—half the conventional width—to minimise tree felling and protect forest cover.
Given that parts of the alignment pass through forest areas, several wildlife-friendly measures have been included. These include a 350-metre-long vehicular overpass and a cattle underpass to ensure safe animal movement. In addition, seven minor bridges, 21 box culverts and five Hume pipe culverts are being built to support wildlife passage.
Safety and ecological safeguards are being enhanced through continuous fencing and the installation of signage indicating speed limits and wildlife zones, aimed at reducing human-animal conflict.
The Ministry added that the bypass will also improve access to tourist destinations such as Mussoorie, boosting tourism while enhancing urban mobility and overall quality of life in Dehradun.
(DD News)