The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is preparing to modernise the 7.5-kilometre Mehrauli-Gurugram stretch, a critical connector between Delhi and Haryana, raising it to national highway standards. The project aims to enhance traffic flow, strengthen safety measures, and lay the foundation for sustainable mobility in one of the region’s most congested corridors.
According to officials, around ₹19.18 crore will initially be invested in resurfacing, drainage improvements, crash barriers, LED lighting and systematic cleaning. The plan also includes paver blocks, new kerbs, road signage and replacement of damaged tiles. In addition, the NHAI will deploy sweeping machines, patrolling vehicles, cranes and ambulances to strengthen emergency response and road management. Bids for the works have been invited and are scheduled to open later this month.
Also Watch: An Exclusive Interview with Sanjeev Jaiswal (IAS), CEO MHADA
The Mehrauli-Gurugram link, now designated as National Highway 148A, has been transferred to NHAI from the Delhi government, along with two other key corridors: Mathura Road between Ashram and Badarpur, and Delhi-Rohtak Road between Punjabi Bagh and Tikri Border. Together, the three stretches span nearly 33 kilometres and are regarded as lifelines for commuters and freight movement across the Capital and its neighbouring states.
Experts highlight that this intervention reflects a significant shift in urban infrastructure management. By moving these arterial roads under NHAI’s ambit, authorities expect a more structured approach to congestion reduction, safety compliance and eco-friendly practices. A government official confirmed that the PWD has been directed to map out slip roads and connecting routes, which may also be handed over in future phases.
For the Delhi-Gurugram stretch, the emphasis is not only on smooth traffic movement but also on enhancing environmental resilience. Mechanical cleaning of medians, improved drainage systems to handle monsoon runoff, and energy-efficient LED lighting are intended to cut down on carbon emissions and reduce urban flooding. Such measures align with national commitments to sustainable and equitable cities.Urban planners note that the corridor has long been plagued by bottlenecks, breakdown-induced snarls and air pollution from idling vehicles. The upcoming upgrade, while modest in scale, could pave the way for smarter interventions such as intelligent traffic management, dedicated bus lanes and green landscaping in subsequent phases.
The timeline for completion will depend on the contracting process, but officials have indicated that maintenance works will extend for at least a year after upgrades are completed. The long-term vision, according to experts, is to integrate these modernised stretches with larger connectivity projects such as the Delhi-Noida-Direct Flyway, ensuring a seamless and sustainable commuting ecosystem.If executed with efficiency and environmental sensitivity, the Mehrauli-Gurugram upgrade may set a precedent for how urban highways can serve both mobility needs and the larger goal of creating eco-friendly, people-centric cities.
Also Read : Delhi Traffic Advisory Warns Of Navratri Rush And Road Diversions
Delhi Gurugram 7.5km stretch upgraded by NHAI to highway standards
