Dehradun: In a concerted effort to alleviate traffic congestion in Dehradun, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is expediting the construction of a 12-kilometer greenfield bypass that will link the city to the Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor, officials announced on Thursday.
Project Progress and Cost
The Rs 716-crore project has achieved approximately 44% physical progress and is slated for completion by April 2027, as per NHAI sources. 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.
Traffic Diversion and Connectivity
Once operational, the bypass is expected to serve as a vital alternative route, diverting non-destined and heavy traffic away from the city center. “The bypass will significantly ease congestion by providing a seamless south-western route for transit traffic,” NHAI officials stated. It will also enhance connectivity to areas such as Selaqui, Vikasnagar, Herbertpur, and Paonta Sahib, while strengthening links with Haryana, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh.
Environmental and Wildlife Safeguards
The project incorporates several environmental safeguards. Although the design speed is 100 kmph, certain stretches will have regulated speeds of 80 kmph to minimize impact on forest areas. “The right of way has been optimized to 30 meters, compared to the conventional 60 meters, to preserve forest cover and maintain ecological balance,” officials noted.
Given that parts of the alignment traverse forested zones, multiple wildlife protection measures are included. These comprise a 350-meter 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 confirmed that continuous fencing and signage indicating wildlife zones and speed limits are also being installed to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
Expected Benefits
Upon completion, the bypass is anticipated to reduce congestion, lower 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.
