Commuting between Delhi, Gurugram to become easier

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has started the trial run of a key tunnel and series of underpasses on the Delhi section of the Dwarka Expressway which will ease traffic congestion on the Delhi-Gurugram stretch of NH-48.

Starting May 29, the trial run will be conducted daily between 12 pm and 3 pm, and is expected to continue till full operations begin on June 5.

The infrastructure under trial includes a shallow tunnel and multiple underpasses aimed at providing seamless connectivity between Dwarka, Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, IGI Airport and Gurugram.

Key routes being tested include direct travel from Dwarka/Yashobhoomi to the airport via underpasses, and onward movement toward Gurugram (Sirhaul) using the shallow tunnel and right-turn underpass.

Commuters from Terminal 3 will also be able to head directly toward Gurugram via a combination of these new links.

NHAI officials say the trial run will be crucial in assessing traffic movement, safety protocols and infrastructure performance before the system is integrated into the broader transport network of Delhi-NCR.

The tunnel has been designed with a height restriction of 4.5 meters and prohibits entry of slow-moving vehicles such as two-wheelers, three-wheelers and tankers carrying flammable materials.

Built with advanced engineering and safety in mind, the tunnel is equipped with CCTV surveillance, emergency exits, and a dedicated control room.

Officials highlight that the strategic design is expected to significantly benefit daily commuters, reducing the pressure on surface roads and enhancing access to the IGI Airport.

Once operational, the new connectivity will serve as an alternative route to the airport, improving travel between Delhi and Gurugram while also facilitating smoother traffic from areas such as Vasant Kunj, Dwarka, Alipur and beyond.

It is also expected to aid movement toward northern destinations like Sonipat, Panipat and Chandigarh from Gurugram, Faridabad and Manesar.

Officials hope the new infrastructure will not only reduce travel time but also contribute to long-term decongestion of one of NCR’s busiest highway stretches.