The Union government is exploring an ambitious plan to construct a 30-kilometre underground road connecting Central Delhi with Gurugram, a move that promises to slash travel time to just 15 minutes. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has confirmed that a feasibility study for the high-speed corridor is underway. The project aims to provide a radical solution to the crippling traffic congestion that plagues the National Capital Region, potentially reshaping daily commutes for thousands.
According to the minister, the proposed tunnel would originate near Talkatora Stadium and extend to Gurugram, offering a direct, signal-free alternative to the current routes that can take over an hour during peak times. The initiative is part of a broader strategy, backed by a transport ministry budget reportedly between ₹30,000 to ₹40,000 crores for Delhi, to decongest the city’s arteries and combat severe air pollution by reducing vehicular emissions from idling traffic.
However, the proposal raises critical questions about the future of urban mobility and sustainability in the capital. While the tunnel promises unparalleled speed for private car owners, urban planning experts often caution against such large-scale, car-centric infrastructure. The global experience suggests that new roads can lead to “induced demand,” where the initial relief from congestion is short-lived as more people are encouraged to drive, eventually leading to renewed gridlock. This cycle undermines long-term goals for creating greener and more liveable urban spaces.
The project presents a pivotal choice for Delhi’s developmental path. The significant investment could alternatively be channelled into strengthening sustainable public transport systems, such as expanding the Metro network, modernising the electric bus fleet, or creating safe, dedicated corridors for cycling and pedestrians. Such an approach would cater to a wider cross-section of the population, fostering a more equitable and eco-friendly transport model. The decision on the tunnel will therefore be a testament to whether Delhi’s future lies in moving more cars faster or in moving more people sustainably.
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