Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, a major infrastructure project aimed at significantly improving connectivity between the national capital and Uttarakhand. The 210-km highway, built at an estimated cost of ₹11,868 crore, is expected to reduce travel time between Delhi and Dehradun from around 6.5 hours to approximately 2.5 hours once fully operational.

The newly inaugurated expressway is part of the broader Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor and is designed to enhance regional mobility, trade, and tourism. Officials said the project will not only shorten the physical distance between the two cities from 235 km to 210 km but also improve road safety and reduce congestion on existing routes. The corridor includes advanced engineering features such as elevated stretches and wildlife-friendly passages.

Ahead of the inauguration, the Prime Minister was welcomed with a roadshow in Dehradun, where large crowds gathered along the route chanting slogans such as “Modi, Modi” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” while waving the national flag. People from various sections of society, including women and children dressed in traditional Uttarakhand attire, lined the streets to greet him.

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During his visit, PM Modi also offered prayers at the Jai Maa Daat Kali Temple in Dehradun. Cultural performances were organised at the temple, where children dressed in traditional attire performed devotional recitations. The Prime Minister interacted with devotees present at the temple premises before proceeding to review the project.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi inspected the wildlife corridor section of the expressway in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, which includes elevated stretches designed to protect animal movement and reduce human-wildlife conflict. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, along with Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, were present during the review.

An exhibition detailing the construction and design of the wildlife corridor was also showcased to the Prime Minister. Officials briefed him on engineering and environmental safeguards incorporated into the project. The visit concluded with another roadshow along the corridor, where supporters gathered in large numbers, showering flower petals and chanting slogans as the Prime Minister’s convoy passed through.

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