PM Modi Inaugurates ₹11,000 Crore Highway Projects to Boost Delhi Connectivity

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated two major highway projects in Delhi on 17 August 2025, with a combined investment of ₹11,000 crore aimed at improving traffic flow, reducing congestion, and strengthening regional connectivity in the National Capital Region (NCR).

The projects include the Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II) and the Dwarka Expressway, both intended to address Delhi’s long-standing traffic challenges. Officials said the investment highlights the government’s focus on modernizing transport corridors and easing movement across the capital and surrounding areas.

UER-II, a 54.21-kilometre six-lane highway, forms part of Delhi’s third ring road under the Delhi Master Plan 2021. It connects Alipur to Dichaon Kalan, passing through Bawana, Rohini, Mundka, Bakkarwala, and Najafgarh. According to government estimates, the project could reduce travel time between Indira Gandhi International Airport and central Delhi by 40 to 60 percent. It is also expected to ease congestion on the Inner and Outer Ring Roads, particularly at busy junctions such as Mukarba Chowk and Dhaula Kuan.

The 10.1-kilometre Dwarka Expressway links the airport with UER-II and extends toward Dwarka and Gurugram. It includes an underpass near the airport and connects to the planned Bijwasan railway station and Dwarka cluster bus depot. Authorities project the expressway will shorten travel times for commuters heading from Chandigarh to Gurugram and the airport, while diverting traffic from the heavily used Delhi-Gurugram Expressway.

Officials said both projects will provide immediate relief for commuters, improve freight movement, and strengthen access to residential and commercial zones. The government noted that the initiatives are part of a wider infrastructure program intended to enhance urban mobility and reduce logistical delays.

The projects are also expected to contribute to regional development by improving links to industrial and commercial hubs. By redirecting freight traffic away from central Delhi, they aim to ease gridlock and lower pollution levels. The government highlighted that construction created jobs and will generate indirect benefits in transport and logistics services.

The inauguration was attended by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who called the projects “historic achievements” that will improve daily commuting and support business and tourism. Officials emphasized that UER-II and the Dwarka Expressway are designed to complement existing infrastructure while enabling future expansions in the NCR.

The launch of the two highways marks a major step toward addressing Delhi’s traffic challenges. By improving connectivity, reducing travel times, and strengthening regional transport networks, the government aims to boost economic growth and support more efficient movement across one of India’s busiest urban regions.