The Union Cabinet has approved a major infrastructure project to construct a six-lane road tunnel linking the Dwarka Expressway with Nelson Mandela Marg in Vasant Kunj, South Delhi. The project, estimated to cost ₹6,969.67 crore, is designed to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity between key parts of the national capital.
The proposed corridor will have a total length of 8.1 kilometres, including a 6.3-km main tunnel along with approach roads, ramps, elevated sections, and supporting infrastructure. The project will be implemented under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM).
In addition to the tunnel, the project includes a 1.8-km elevated corridor along Nelson Mandela Marg, a flyover near Chhatarpur, and an elevated U-turn to ensure smoother traffic movement at major junctions. These additions are expected to improve traffic circulation and reduce bottlenecks in South Delhi.
Officials said the tunnel will provide seamless connectivity between Dwarka Expressway, the Indira Gandhi International Airport area, and South Delhi, significantly reducing travel time for daily commuters. It is also expected to decongest busy roads such as NH-48 and surrounding arterial routes.
The government believes the project will not only enhance urban mobility but also generate substantial employment during the construction phase while supporting Delhi's long-term transport infrastructure. Work on the tunnel is expected to begin after the completion of the tendering and approval process.
