Path Cleared for Dwarka-Nelson Mandela Tunnel

03 Jan 2025 CW Team

The construction of a road tunnel linking Dwarka Expressway to Nelson Mandela Marg in Delhi has gained momentum after the Delhi Pollution Control Board (DPCB) submitted a comprehensive assessment report to the Ministry of Environment. This report follows a public hearing conducted on September 18 and 19, where feedback from local stakeholders was gathered to assess the environmental impact of the project.

This 4.78 km tunnel, which will span 2.28 km under the city, is expected to ease the traffic congestion that plagues the stretch between Shiv Murti Chowk and Nelson Mandela Marg in South-West Delhi. The project is also poised to improve connectivity between Delhi and neighboring regions, including Gurugram, Manesar, and Chandigarh.

The proposed route will connect the Dwarka Expressway directly to major highways such as the Delhi-Jaipur and Delhi-Faridabad roads, further enhancing traffic flow towards Terminal 3 of Delhi Airport and the Gurugram Expressway. Commuters will also benefit from smoother travel from Munirka and Vasant Kunj.

With an estimated cost of Rs 20 billion, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is tasked with overseeing the tunnel's construction. However, the project faces challenges due to the presence of numerous underground utilities, including sewer and water pipelines, as well as gas and electricity lines. The relocation of these utilities is expected to delay progress.

The Ministry of Environment will now review the report before proceeding with the necessary approvals.

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