Palwal-Manesar KMP stretch to get facelift, awaits final approval
A Rs 70-crore project for the repair and relaying of the 53-km Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway stretch between Palwal and Manesar has moved a step closer, with technical bids submitted for state government approval. This marks the first major upkeep initiative since the expressway opened nine years ago.
Key issues on KMP Expressway
Damaged road surface: Potholes and wear cause inconvenience and safety risks
Lack of proper lighting: Increases accident risks, especially at night
Illegal fuel sales: Unregulated petrol and diesel sales along the expressway
No rest areas: Despite high traffic, no designated spots for commuters to halt
High tolls, poor upkeep: Regular toll collection continues despite road deterioration
Connecting Palwal and Sonepat districts, the KMP Expressway is a crucial corridor providing signal-free bypass access around Delhi. However, commuters have long complained about its deteriorating condition, despite continued toll collection.
"The issue had surfaced at various levels in the past, as tolls continued despite the poor road condition," said an official, speaking on the condition of anonymity.
The Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC), which oversees the expressway, is expected to begin work as soon as the technical bids are approved. Sources suggest the project faced delays due to election-related restrictions, which forced authorities to put the plan on hold.
Local residents and frequent travellers have raised concerns over the expressway’s neglected state.
"Several kilometres of this stretch have been damaged or potholed for years, causing inconvenience despite high toll charges," said Mohan Singh, a resident of Palwal district.
He said since the section was opened in 2016, poor maintenance has increased the risk of accidents. Many commuters have complained about the absence of accountability for recurring issues.
A local entrepreneur, requesting anonymity, pointed out other violations, including the absence of proper lighting, damaged side rails, illegal fuel sales, and lack of adequate eateries or rest areas.
"No one is held responsible for the poor condition of the road or the accidents it causes every year," he said.
Palwal Deputy Commissioner Dr Harish Kumar Vashisht confirmed that Rs 70 crore has been sanctioned for the project, and work is expected to begin soon.
Sources said similar maintenance issues have emerged on the KGP (Kundli-Ghaziabad-Palwal) Expressway, where potholes at multiple points have led to frequent accidents and commuter inconvenience.
