Delhi CM Rekha Gupta writes to Nitin Gadkari for Mandi Road upgrade
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has formally requested Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari to declare the 8.8-kilometre Mandi Road in South Delhi as a national highway. In her letter, Gupta urged that the road's development be handed over to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to ensure timely and comprehensive redevelopment.
Strategic importance of Mandi Road
Mandi Road serves as a vital transport corridor connecting Mehrauli-Gurugram Road (NH-148A) near Chhatarpur Metro station with the Gurugram-Faridabad Road at the Delhi-Haryana border. According to the Chief Minister, the road is a crucial link between Delhi and the economic hubs of Gurugram and Faridabad, facilitating significant inter-state traffic movement. The existing traffic load and future demand projections make it a strong candidate for inclusion under NHAI's jurisdiction.
Recognition by UTTIPEC in 2023
Gupta highlighted that the governing body of the Unified Traffic and Transportation Infrastructure (Planning and Engineering) Centre, in its 68th meeting held on September 27, 2023, had recognised the strategic importance of Mandi Road. The body supported its widening and comprehensive redevelopment, underscoring the need for a dedicated agency like NHAI to execute the project.
Direct connectivity with NH-148A
The Chief Minister noted that Mandi Road's direct connectivity with NH-148A further strengthens the case for its national highway status. She argued that entrusting the project to NHAI would ensure better planning, funding, and execution, ultimately benefiting commuters and boosting regional economic activity.
Expected impact on regional connectivity
If declared a national highway, Mandi Road is expected to ease congestion and improve travel times for thousands of daily commuters between Delhi, Gurugram, and Faridabad. The move would also support the growing economic integration of the National Capital Region (NCR) by providing a smoother link between key industrial and residential areas.
