Infrastructure – PM Reviews Asia’s Long Wildlife Corridor in UP Expressway Project
Infrastructure – Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday assessed progress on a 12-kilometre wildlife corridor in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur district, a significant component of the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway. The corridor is considered one of the longest of its kind in Asia and is designed to ensure safe animal movement alongside high-speed road infrastructure.
Visit to Temple and Public Engagement
Later in the day, the Prime Minister travelled to the Jai Maa Daat Kali Temple near Dehradun, where he offered prayers and participated in rituals. During the visit, a group of children performed an aarti, and Modi joined in by clapping along, creating a moment of engagement with the local community.
Launch of Economic Corridor
The Prime Minister is also set to formally inaugurate the Delhi–Dehradun Economic Corridor at a public gathering in Dehradun. The event will include an address highlighting the importance of the project in enhancing regional connectivity and supporting economic activity.
Project Scope and Investment
The 213-kilometre corridor has been developed as a six-lane, access-controlled highway with an investment exceeding ₹12,000 crore. It stretches across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, aiming to reduce travel time while maintaining a strong focus on safety and environmental responsibility.
Key Infrastructure Features
The expressway includes several modern infrastructure elements designed for efficiency and convenience. These include 10 interchanges, three railway overbridges, four major bridges, and 12 designated wayside amenities for travelers. Additionally, an Advanced Traffic Management System has been installed to improve road safety, monitor traffic flow, and respond quickly to emergencies.
Focus on Wildlife Protection
Given the ecological sensitivity of the region, special measures have been incorporated to minimize disruption to wildlife. The project features eight designated animal crossings, including two elephant underpasses measuring 200 metres each. A 370-metre tunnel near the Daat Kali temple has also been constructed to allow uninterrupted movement of animals across forested areas.
Economic and Regional Impact
The corridor is expected to play a key role in boosting economic growth by improving connectivity between major commercial centres and tourist destinations. Faster travel routes are likely to encourage trade, support local businesses, and increase tourism in the region.
Balancing Development and Sustainability
The project reflects a broader approach to infrastructure development that seeks to combine modern engineering with environmental safeguards. By integrating wildlife corridors and advanced safety systems, the expressway aims to set a benchmark for future projects that balance development needs with ecological preservation.
This initiative underscores ongoing efforts to create infrastructure that not only enhances mobility but also safeguards natural habitats and improves overall quality of life.