The Union Cabinet has approved two major highway infrastructure projects worth ₹14,115 crore, giving a significant boost to connectivity in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. The projects include a six-lane tunnel linking the Dwarka Expressway with South Delhi and a new access-controlled highway corridor connecting Kanpur and Kabrai in Uttar Pradesh. The approvals are expected to improve traffic flow, reduce travel times, and strengthen regional economic development.
₹6,970 Crore Dwarka Tunnel to Ease Delhi Congestion
One of the key projects cleared by the Cabinet is an 8.1-kilometre six-lane tunnel on NH-148AE that will connect the Dwarka Expressway with Nelson Mandela Marg in Vasant Kunj. The project will be developed at an estimated cost of ₹6,969.67 crore.
The tunnel is expected to significantly improve connectivity between West Delhi and South Delhi while reducing traffic congestion on some of the capital’s busiest roads. In addition to the tunnel, authorities have proposed a 1.8-kilometre elevated road along Nelson Mandela Marg to streamline traffic movement and minimise bottlenecks.
The project is also expected to complement other planned infrastructure developments in the Delhi-NCR region, helping create a more integrated transport network for commuters and commercial traffic.
New Kanpur-Kabrai Highway Approved
The Cabinet has also approved the construction of a 117.7-kilometre four-to-six-lane access-controlled highway between Kanpur and Kabrai on NH-34 in Uttar Pradesh. The project carries an estimated investment of ₹7,145.14 crore.
Designed for speeds of up to 100 kmph, the highway is expected to reduce travel time between Kanpur and Kabrai from around three-and-a-half hours to approximately one-and-a-half hours. The corridor will improve connectivity to Bundelkhand and strengthen links with major highways, expressways, and regional road networks.
Employment and Economic Benefits
Apart from improving transportation infrastructure, both projects are expected to generate substantial employment opportunities. Government estimates suggest that the Delhi tunnel project alone will create more than 17 lakh person-days of direct and indirect employment, while the Kanpur-Kabrai highway will generate over one crore person-days during construction and related activities.
Improved logistics and faster travel are also expected to support trade, industrial growth, and regional development across northern India.
Strengthening India’s Infrastructure Push
The approvals underscore the government’s continued focus on expanding road infrastructure to support economic growth and urban mobility. With investments exceeding ₹14,000 crore, the two projects are expected to improve connectivity, reduce congestion, and create a more efficient transport network for millions of commuters and businesses.
Summary
The Union Cabinet has approved two highway projects worth ₹14,115 crore, including a ₹6,970 crore six-lane tunnel connecting the Dwarka Expressway to South Delhi and a ₹7,145 crore Kanpur-Kabrai highway in Uttar Pradesh. The projects aim to reduce travel times, ease congestion, improve regional connectivity, and generate significant employment while supporting economic growth and infrastructure development.
