Delhi-Dehradun Expressway to open with 14 km wildlife corridor – is this India’s greenest highway?

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway: The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, a ₹12,000-crore infrastructure marvel, is set to open by mid-2025, promising to revolutionise connectivity between Delhi and Dehradun. Spanning approximately 210 km, this six-lane expressway will reduce travel time from over 6 hours to just 2.5 hours. This makes it one of the fastest routes in North India.


A standout feature of the expressway is its 14 km wildlife corridor, the longest in Asia, which passes through the eco-sensitive Rajaji National Park. This elevated corridor and multiple underpasses ensure safe passage for elephants, tigers, deer, and other native species, minimising human-wildlife conflict and preserving biodiversity.

The expressway’s design integrates sound barriers and animal crossings. This makes it a pioneering example of eco-friendly highway infrastructure in India.


The newly built ₹13,000 crore Delhi-Dehradun Expressway has developed sinkholes and structural damage after the very first rainfall. This has raised serious concerns about the project's quality and durability. The expressway was designed to cut travel time between Delhi and Dehradun significantly.

However, the early damage has put construction standards under scrutiny. People are now questioning the reliability of the contractors. The incident has sparked public outcry. Citizens are demanding a full investigation. Many are calling for steps to ensure safety and long-term stability of the expressway.



Below is the required Key features of the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway listed:

• Six lanes expandable to eight lanes with service roads for smooth traffic flow.
• 113 underpasses and 5 railway overbridges to enhance connectivity and safety.
• 16 entry and exit points strategically placed for accessibility.
• A 340-meter tunnel at Datkali to maintain uninterrupted travel through hilly terrain.
• Advanced traffic management systems and safety measures for commuters.

The expressway is expected to boost tourism in Uttarakhand by improving access to hill stations and pilgrimage sites like Haridwar and the Char Dham Highway. It will also stimulate regional economic growth by facilitating faster freight movement and reducing congestion on existing routes such as the Delhi-Meerut Expressway.



1. When will the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway open?

Answer: The expressway is scheduled to open fully by mid-2025, with some sections operational since early 2025.

2. What is unique about the wildlife corridor on this expressway?

Answer: It features Asia’s longest elevated wildlife corridor, spanning 14 km through Rajaji National Park, designed to protect elephants, tigers, and other wildlife.

3. How much will the expressway reduce travel time between Delhi and Dehradun?

Answer: Travel time will be cut from over 6 hours to approximately 2.5 hours, significantly improving connectivity.

4. What safety features does the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway include?

Answer: The expressway includes advanced traffic management systems, sound barriers, multiple underpasses, and a tunnel at Datkali for safe and efficient travel.

5. How will the expressway impact tourism and the economy?

Answer: By enhancing access to Uttarakhand’s tourist and pilgrimage destinations and improving freight movement, the expressway is expected to boost regional tourism and economic activities.

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