The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will oversee the construction of a 14-km elevated corridor between INA and Nelson Mandela Marg in Vasant Kunj, aiming to alleviate heavy congestion on Delhi’s Ring Road. The project, funded by the Delhi government and the Ministry of Urban Affairs, has been widely welcomed, particularly in South Delhi. 

In addition to the elevated corridor, NHAI will construct a tunnel connecting Nelson Mandela Marg to the Shiv Murti Interchange, providing seamless access to Indira Gandhi Airport for commuters from East and South Delhi. 

Initially approved by the central government in July 2021 under the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), the project had been stalled due to pending clearance from the Public Investment Board. However, recent discussions at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) prompted the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to involve NHAI in expediting the project. 

The corridor, passing through key government residential and commercial areas along the Ring Road, is expected to significantly ease congestion, particularly at AIIMS crossing and Bhikaji Cama flyover, where daily traffic reaches 1.3 lakh and 3.3 lakh vehicles, respectively. While the initial project estimate was Rs 45 billioin, the final cost will be determined after the detailed project report (DPR) is completed. 

(news18)