Infrastructure – Major Highway Projects Set to Transform Uttarakhand Connectivity
Infrastructure – The Centre has outlined an extensive roadmap to strengthen Uttarakhand’s transport network, with multiple highway and connectivity projects progressing across the state.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday highlighted a series of ongoing and upcoming infrastructure developments aimed at accelerating Uttarakhand’s economic progress. Speaking at a public event in Dehradun’s Gadi Cantt area, he said the Delhi–Dehradun Economic Corridor would play a crucial role in reshaping connectivity and boosting regional development.
Large-Scale Investment in Infrastructure
The minister stated that projects worth nearly Rs 1.30 lakh crore are currently underway in Uttarakhand with strong backing from the central government. These initiatives are expected to improve road quality, reduce travel time, and support tourism and trade across the state.
According to him, the scale of investment reflects a long-term strategy to position Uttarakhand as a well-connected and economically vibrant region. The focus remains on building modern highways while ensuring smoother access to both urban centres and remote areas.
Key Projects Nearing Completion
Providing updates on projects set to be completed soon, Gadkari said the 51-kilometre six-lane stretch between the Saharanpur bypass and Haridwar is likely to be inaugurated in June. This corridor is expected to significantly ease traffic movement for daily commuters and pilgrims.
He also noted that the four-lane highway connecting Paonta Sahib to Dehradun, built at a cost of Rs 1,650 crore, is expected to become operational next month. The route will offer a faster and safer travel option for people commuting between the two regions.
Measures to Reduce Traffic in Pilgrimage Towns
Addressing congestion in key religious destinations, the minister said work is progressing on the Haridwar greenfield bypass project. The four-lane bypass, estimated at Rs 1,600 crore, is scheduled for completion by October 2026.
Additionally, a Rs 1,100-crore bypass project in Rishikesh has received approval, with construction expected to begin in August. These projects aim to streamline traffic flow, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons when visitor numbers increase sharply.
Upcoming Bypass and Road Projects
Several other infrastructure works are also in different stages of execution. A 21-kilometre four-lane bypass in Rudrapur, costing Rs 1,050 crore, is expected to be ready by October this year. Meanwhile, a 15-kilometre bypass in Kashipur, with an estimated cost of Rs 936 crore, is targeted for completion by December 2026.
The minister further mentioned a 12-kilometre elevated road project along the Dehradun–Jhajra–Asharodi stretch, valued at Rs 716 crore, which is likely to be completed by April next year. Another major route connecting Bhaniyawala, Jolly Grant, and Rishikesh, spanning 20 kilometres and costing Rs 745 crore, is scheduled for completion by April 2028.
In addition, a detailed project report is being prepared for a proposed two-lane bypass in Srinagar, estimated at Rs 800 crore.
Strengthening Pilgrimage Connectivity
Gadkari emphasized that improving access to religious sites remains a priority. He said efforts are underway to develop domestic routes that reduce reliance on foreign territories, particularly for the Mansarovar Yatra.
A road from Tanakpur to Pithoragarh, extending up to Lipulekh, is being constructed at a cost of Rs 5,200 crore. Out of the total 370-kilometre stretch, around 200 kilometres have already been completed, bringing the project closer to its goal.
Progress on Char Dham and Ropeway Projects
The minister also provided an update on the Char Dham highway project, which spans 825 kilometres and is estimated at Rs 12,000 crore. He said approximately 640 kilometres of the project have already been completed, indicating steady progress.
To further enhance connectivity in hilly regions, the government is working on ropeway systems, including routes from Sonprayag to Kedarnath and Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib. Alongside these, multiple tunnel projects are being planned to ensure reliable, all-weather access across Uttarakhand’s mountainous terrain.
These combined efforts are expected to significantly improve mobility, support tourism, and contribute to the state’s long-term economic growth.