In an effort to alleviate traffic congestion between Indira Gandhi International Airport and Gurugram, the central government of India is set to commence construction on a tunnel connecting Terminal 3 of the airport with South Delhi and Gurugram. The tunnel will span from Nelson Mandela Marg in Vasant Kunj to Shiv Murti in Mahipalpur. The project, with an approved budget of Rs 2,000 crore, is expected to significantly improve connectivity and reduce traffic jams in the area.
Enhanced Connectivity and Decongestion
The tunnel, measuring 14 metres wide, will become one of the widest tunnels in the country upon completion. It will connect three major roads: the Delhi-Jaipur highway, Dwarka Expressway, and Nelson Mandela Marg. This development will not only streamline the travel route from the airport to Gurugram but also help decongest the surrounding areas in South Delhi.
Construction Timeline and Tender Process
According to sources, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has invited tenders from construction agencies for the project. The timeline for completion has been set at four years, with an additional ten-year maintenance period. The NHAI aims to finalise the selection of a suitable agency to ensure the timely and successful execution of the project.
Reduced Distance and Travel Time
The current distance from Nelson Mandela Marg to Dwarka Expressway and the Delhi-Jaipur Highway is approximately eight kilometres, often resulting in heavy traffic flow during peak hours. However, upon completion of the tunnel, the distance will be reduced to around five kilometres, allowing motorists to bypass the congestion-prone areas and experience smoother travel.
Improving Infrastructure for Greater Convenience
The commencement of the tunnel construction represents a significant step towards improving infrastructure and addressing the increasing traffic demands in the region. By providing a direct and efficient link between the airport and Gurugram, the project aims to enhance the convenience and overall travel experience for commuters.
The construction of the tunnel is expected to bring significant relief to motorists travelling between the airport and Gurugram, improving overall connectivity and reducing travel time. It represents a positive step towards enhancing transportation infrastructure in the region, catering to the growing needs of commuters and fostering smoother traffic flow.
