44% physical progress of 12-km greenfield bypass / PIB
Dehradun: In a bid to ease traffic congestion in Dehradun, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is fast-tracking the construction of a 12-km greenfield bypass that will connect the city to the Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor, officials said on Thursday.
The Rs 716-crore project has achieved around 44% physical progress and is targeted for completion by April 2027, according to NHAI.The four-lane, access-controlled bypass will originate from Jhajhra on the Paonta Sahib-Ballupur stretch of NH-7 and extend to the Asharori check post, where it will merge with the Delhi-Dehradun corridor. Once operational, it is expected to serve as a key alternative route, diverting non-destined and heavy traffic away from the city.
bypass that will connect the city to the Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor
“The bypass will significantly ease congestion by providing a seamless south-western route for transit traffic,” NHAI officials said, adding that it will improve connectivity to areas such as Selaqui, Vikasnagar, Herbertpur and Paonta Sahib, and strengthen links with Haryana, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.The project incorporates several environmental safeguards. While the design speed is 100 kmph, certain stretches will have regulated speeds of 80 kmph to minimise the impact on forest areas.
“The right of way has been optimised to 30m, compared to the conventional 60m, to preserve forest cover and maintain ecological balance,” officials said.
The Rs 716-crore 12-km greenfield bypass that will connect the city to the Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor is targeted for completion by April 2027.
Given that parts of the alignment pass through forested zones, several wildlife protection measures have been included. These comprise a 350m vehicular overpass for large animals, a cattle overpass, seven minor bridges and 21 box culverts. Additionally, five hume pipe culverts are being constructed to facilitate the safe movement of smaller fauna.NHAI officials said continuous fencing and signage indicating wildlife zones and speed limits are also being installed to minimise human-wildlife conflict.Once completed, the bypass is expected to ease congestion, reduce vehicular pollution and improve overall urban mobility. It will also enhance connectivity to tourist destinations such as Mussoorie, providing a boost to tourism in the region, the officials added.
