The serene beauty of Dehradun, often referred to as the gateway to the Himalayas, is on the verge of experiencing a revolutionary transformation in its infrastructure. With the success of the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway’s 12 km elevated stretch, the government has proposed another monumental project: an elevated road between Nepali Farm and Dhalwala in Rishikesh. This ambitious project aims to enhance traffic flow, especially during the highly congested Char Dham Yatra and other peak travel seasons.
Why This Elevated Road Matters
The Rishikesh region often bears the brunt of traffic snarls, especially during spiritual and seasonal tourism events like the Char Dham Yatra and Kanwar Yatra. The elevated road will serve as a vital bypass, diverting vehicles from congested urban areas and ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Key Benefits
- Easing Traffic: Vehicles from Dehradun and Haridwar heading towards Char Dham will no longer need to pass through the busy Rishikesh urban stretch.
- Boosting Tourism: With smoother travel, the project will make the region more accessible to tourists.
- Future-Proofing: As destinations like Tehri Lake gain popularity, the road will handle increased traffic pressure.
Project Highlights
Phase 1: Nepali Farm to Dhalwala
- Length: 10.88 km
- Width: Four-lane
- Budget: ₹1,485 crore
- Purpose: Provide a direct route for vehicles bypassing Rishikesh city.
Phase 2: Dhalwala to Tapovan
- Length: 7 km
- Width: Double-lane
- Additional Features: Includes two tunnels to further ease the route.
- Estimated Budget: ₹915 crore
This phased approach ensures immediate relief while also planning for long-term improvements in connectivity.
Progress So Far
The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Phase 1 has already been sent to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for approval. Once approved, construction is expected to begin promptly. Executive Engineer Navneet Pandey, who is spearheading the project, expressed optimism about swift clearances.
For Phase 2, the DPR is under finalization, with plans to connect Dhalwala to Tapovan, extending the benefits to a broader region.
Anticipated Impact
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Bypassing Rishikesh Urban Area | Reduced congestion during Char Dham and Kanwar Yatras. |
| Enhanced Connectivity | Smoother travel from Dehradun, Haridwar, and Tehri towards Char Dham. |
| Tourism Growth | Easier access to spiritual and scenic destinations. |
| Future Preparedness | Ready for increased traffic as Tehri Lake develops into a major attraction. |
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