Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday (June 8, 2025) said the Centre has approved several projects worth ₹24,000 crore to streamline traffic and reduce pollution in Delhi and its adjoining areas, including a five-km tunnel between Shiv Murti-Mahipalpur (Dwarka Expressway) and Nelson Mandela Road (Vasant Kunj).
The tunnel will be constructed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) at an estimated cost of ₹3,500 crore, she said, adding that the projects were approved during a recent meeting with Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari.
Ms. Gupta said that the work on the project will likely commence early next year. It will comprise of two underground tubes, with each tube having three lanes -- totalling to six lanes, which will offer a signal-free alternate route between South Delhi and Dwarka/Gurugram.
The tunnel will also be equipped with modern facilities such as electro-mechanical systems, ventilation, fire safety, CCTV surveillance, control rooms, emergency exits, and cross-passages.
She explained that the tunnel will significantly ease traffic congestion on Rangpuri, Dhaula Kuan, Rao Tula Ram Marg, and National Highway 48 (NH-48).
