Delhi-Gurugram Traffic Relief Soon As NHAI Begins Trial Runs Of Shallow Tunnel And Underpasses

In a significant step toward easing congestion and improving traffic flow along the Delhi-Gurugram section of National Highway 48, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated trial runs of the shallow tunnel and associated underpasses on the Delhi stretch of the Dwarka Expressway.

Starting from 29 May 2025, the trial runs will be conducted daily between 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm, an official statement confirmed.

The move is aimed at assessing traffic patterns, safety protocols, and infrastructure performance before full-scale operations commence. The tunnel is expected to become fully operational by 5 June 2025.

The underpasses included in the trial comprise a shallow tunnel connecting Dwarka/Yashobhumi with the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport via the airport underpasses.

Commuters will also be able to access Gurugram (Sirhaul) from Dwarka/Yashobhumi using the shallow tunnel and the right-turn underpass.

Similarly, travellers from Terminal 3 can take a combination of the airport underpasses and the right-turn underpass to reach Gurugram.

NHAI has stipulated a height restriction of 4.5 metres for vehicles using the tunnel. Slow-moving vehicles, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and vehicles transporting flammable materials such as oil tankers, will not be allowed entry for safety reasons.

The tunnel features advanced engineering and safety systems, including CCTV surveillance, a dedicated control room, and emergency exits, to ensure a secure and efficient commuting experience.

The tunnel’s strategic location and layout will benefit large number of daily commuters, lower the burden on surface roads and reduce congestion by connecting Dwarka Expressway to the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.

Once operational, the infrastructure is expected to significantly enhance connectivity across Delhi-NCR, particularly between Gurugram, Vasant Kunj, Dwarka, and Alipur, while facilitating seamless northbound traffic flow from Faridabad, Gurugram, and Manesar to destinations such as Sonipat, Panipat, and Chandigarh.

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