Dwarka Expressway, First Urban Elevated Highway of India in New Gurgaon

Introduction

The long-awaited completion of the Dwarka Expressway in Gurgaon is finally on the horizon. After several missed deadlines, the Haryana government is confident that the Gurgaon portion of the expressway will be opened in February. With 99% of the work completed, only the finishing touches remain. This major infrastructure project aims to improve connectivity and ease traffic congestion in the region.

The Four Packages of the Expressway

The Dwarka Expressway is divided into four packages, each serving a specific stretch of the road. The first package spans from Shiv Murti near Mahipalpur to Dwarka. The second package covers the section from Dwarka Urban Extension Road (UER) to Bajghera. The third package extends from Bajghera to Basai rail overbridge, which marks the Delhi-Haryana border. Finally, the fourth package runs from Basai ROB to Kherki Daula.

Progress and Completion of the Gurgaon Portion

The Gurgaon segment of the Dwarka Expressway has faced several delays but is now nearing completion. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) had previously announced that the Gurgaon portion would be finished by the end of October. While that deadline was not met, the Haryana government has recently written to the NHAI, requesting the opening of the stretch. Although they are still awaiting a response, it is expected that the Gurgaon portion will be opened soon due to the advanced stage of completion.

Key Features of the Gurgaon Portion

The Gurgaon section of the Dwarka Expressway includes significant features that will greatly benefit commuters. Among them is a cloverleaf interchange connecting the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway (NH-48) and the Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) near Kherki Daula. This interchange will enhance connectivity and streamline traffic flow in the area.

Alleviating Waterlogging Issues

In addition to the expressway, the Gurgaon administration is taking steps to address waterlogging problems in the city. A new drain, constructed by the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA), is being laid from Vatika Chowk to SPR at a cost of Rs 136 crore. This drain aims to mitigate waterlogging issues along the Delhi-Gurgaon-Jaipur National Highway near Narsinghpur and sectors 15 to 20. The district administration has identified approximately 110 locations prone to waterlogging and is implementing suitable measures to address this issue.

Infrastructure Development Projects

The Gurgaon administration has unveiled a range of infrastructure projects that are planned for completion by 2024. One of these projects is the construction of Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) and Waste Water Treatment Plants (WWTP) in the villages of Dhanwapur and Chandu. With an estimated cost of Rs 250 crore, these plants will significantly improve the sanitation and environmental conditions in the area.

Metro Expansion in Old Gurgaon

The Haryana government has taken steps to expand the metro network in old Gurgaon. The Haryana Metro Rail Corporation (HMRC), modeled after the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), has been established to oversee this project. Construction work is expected to commence by the end of this year. The metro expansion will enhance connectivity within the city and provide residents with an efficient and convenient mode of transportation.

Orbit Railway Corridor

Another significant development project in Gurgaon is the Orbit Railway Corridor. The authorities have identified land in Sehli village for the construction of a new bus stand in the district. This initiative aims to improve public transportation and provide better connectivity to the residents of Gurgaon.

Conclusion

The opening of the Gurgaon portion of the Dwarka Expressway marks a significant milestone in the completion of this major infrastructure project. With its division into four packages, the expressway will enhance connectivity and ease traffic congestion in the region. The Gurgaon administration is also undertaking various initiatives to address waterlogging issues and improve overall infrastructure in the city. With the expansion of the metro network and the development of the Orbit Railway Corridor, Gurgaon is poised to become a more accessible and well-connected city.