Will the 5-km Tunnel from Vasant Kunj to Mahipalpur Transform Delhi's Traffic?
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Synopsis
The upcoming five-kilometer tunnel from Shiv Murti–Mahipalpur to Nelson Mandela Road is set to revolutionize traffic flow in southwest Delhi. Estimated at Rs 3,500 crore, this project, part of a larger Rs 24,000 crore initiative, aims to create a signal-free corridor to the airport, reducing congestion and pollution. Discover how this tunnel will reshape Delhi's infrastructure!
Key Takeaways
- Five-km tunnel will connect Shiv Murti–Mahipalpur to Nelson Mandela Road.
- Part of a Rs 24,000 crore infrastructure initiative.
- Designed to reduce congestion and create a signal-free corridor.
- Construction expected to commence early next year.
- Modern safety features to enhance traffic management.
New Delhi, June 8 (NationPress) A five-kilometer long tunnel stretching from Shiv Murti–Mahipalpur (Dwarka Expressway) to Nelson Mandela Road (Vasant Kunj) in southwest Delhi is one of six initiatives valued at Rs 24,000 crore that have received approval from the Central government, announced Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday. Construction on this tunnel is anticipated to commence early next year.
CM Gupta mentioned that these projects were sanctioned during a meeting with Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, aimed at improving traffic flow and mitigating pollution in the capital.
She explained that the proposed tunnel will alleviate congestion across various routes and establish a signal-free corridor to the airport.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will oversee its construction, with an estimated budget of Rs 3,500 crore, as per her statements.
CM Gupta confirmed that all technical and procedural prerequisites for the project are nearing completion, with work expected to kick off early next year.
According to her, the tunnel will consist of two underground tubes — one designated for traffic in each direction.
Each tube will accommodate three lanes, resulting in a total of six lanes for uninterrupted traffic flow. The tunnel will also feature advanced amenities such as electro-mechanical systems, ventilation, fire safety measures, CCTV surveillance, control rooms, emergency exits, and cross-passages.
She stated that the tunnel will help reduce traffic in the Dhaula Kuan, Rao Tula Ram Marg, and National Highway 48 (NH-48) areas of Mahipalpur.
This tunnel will provide a direct, signal-free alternative route connecting South Delhi with Dwarka/Gurugram, which should effectively minimize traffic jams on NH-48, particularly during peak hours.
CM Rekha Gupta also emphasized that in the future, this tunnel will play a crucial role in linking Central/East Delhi with several expressways and highways, such as the Delhi Expressway (NE-5), NH-44, NH-10, the Delhi-Jaipur Highway (NH-48), and the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway (NH-709B) via the Urban Extension Road (UER) and Dwarka Expressway.
Referring to this project as the “foundation for the Delhi of the future,” CM Rekha Gupta asserted that the tunnel will enhance Delhi’s infrastructure and provide relief to millions.
She added: "We are dedicated to making Delhi congestion-free and environmentally friendly. The construction of this tunnel will lessen the pressure on roads, eliminate traffic signals, and conserve fuel."
Point of View
We recognize the importance of this tunnel project in addressing Delhi's chronic traffic challenges. The government’s commitment to improving infrastructure while reducing pollution aligns with the needs of the citizens, making this development a significant step towards a more sustainable urban environment.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the construction of the tunnel begin?
The construction of the tunnel is expected to start early next year.
Who will be responsible for the construction of the tunnel?
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will oversee the construction of the tunnel.
What is the estimated cost of the tunnel?
The estimated cost of the tunnel is Rs 3,500 crore.
How will this tunnel impact traffic in Delhi?
The tunnel will reduce congestion on multiple routes and provide a signal-free corridor to the airport, significantly easing traffic during peak hours.
What modern facilities will be included in the tunnel?
The tunnel will feature advanced systems such as ventilation, fire safety, CCTV surveillance, and emergency exits.
