Cabinet Approves ₹21,000-Crore Highway Projects for Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, Clears Six-Lane Dwarka Tunnel

The Union Cabinet has approved a series of major highway infrastructure projects worth more than ₹21,000 crore, including a ₹6,970-crore six-lane tunnel connecting Dwarka Expressway with Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. The projects are aimed at easing traffic congestion, improving connectivity and strengthening transport infrastructure in the National Capital Region and Uttar Pradesh.

Among the key approvals is the construction of the six-lane Dwarka tunnel, which will provide direct connectivity between the Dwarka Expressway and the airport. The tunnel is expected to significantly reduce travel time for commuters while decongesting major roads in southwest Delhi. Designed as an access-controlled corridor, the project is intended to improve traffic flow for both airport-bound passengers and residents of the surrounding areas.

The Cabinet also approved highway projects worth ₹14,115 crore in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The projects include the development and expansion of key national highway corridors aimed at enhancing regional connectivity, reducing travel time and supporting economic growth through improved road infrastructure.

According to the government, the approved projects will strengthen links between Delhi, western Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring states, facilitating smoother movement of passengers and freight. Officials said the new road network is expected to reduce traffic bottlenecks, improve logistics efficiency and support industrial and commercial activities across the region.

The Dwarka tunnel project is expected to incorporate modern engineering features, including advanced ventilation, lighting, surveillance systems and emergency response facilities to ensure commuter safety. Authorities said the tunnel will also help divert airport-bound traffic away from congested city roads, improving overall traffic management in the capital. The government believes the upgraded road infrastructure will improve access to urban centres, industrial hubs and residential areas, contributing to faster and more efficient transportation.

The approvals form part of the Centre’s broader strategy to modernise India’s road network through large-scale investments in highways, expressways and urban mobility projects.