2,105 km of road projects worth Rs 1.04 lakh crore planned to ease Delhi-NCR traffic: Govt

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has informed the Lok Sabha that the government is undertaking road projects spanning 2,105 km at a total cost of Rs 1,04,145 crore to decongest the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR). The statement was made in a written reply to a question by Bharatiya Janata Party MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, who sought details on projects aimed at reducing traffic congestion in South Delhi.

In his response, Gadkari noted that the NCR is experiencing increasing traffic congestion due to rapid population growth, a rise in the number of vehicles, and other socio-economic factors. He said the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has taken up the projects to address these challenges. The reply did not specify completion timelines or a detailed action plan for specific intersections, such as the Kalindi Kunj crossing, which was also raised by the MP.

Delhi-NCR, one of the most densely populated urban agglomerations in the world, has long struggled with traffic congestion. According to government data, the number of registered vehicles in Delhi alone exceeds 1.2 crore, with thousands more added daily. The NCR region, which includes parts of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, faces similar trends.

The announced projects include expansion of existing highways, construction of new expressways, and improvement of road connectivity between key points. While the minister did not provide a break-up of individual projects, he assured that the ministry is working on a comprehensive plan to ease traffic flow.

Experts have welcomed the move but caution that infrastructure development must be matched with better public transport and traffic management. “Road expansion alone may not solve the problem if vehicle ownership continues to grow unchecked,” said Dr. Ravi Sharma, a transport analyst at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi. “Integrated planning with metro, bus rapid transit, and non-motorised transport is essential.”

The government has previously launched initiatives like the Delhi-Meerut Expressway and the Eastern Peripheral Expressway to divert traffic away from the capital. The latest announcement signals a continued focus on road-based solutions.

The BJP MP’s query also sought details on the timeline for these projects. The minister did not provide a specific start date but stated that work is underway on several stretches. He added that the ministry reviews progress regularly.

While the funding is substantial, the success of these projects will depend on timely execution and coordination with state governments. Land acquisition and environmental clearances have often delayed similar projects in the past.

For residents of Delhi-NCR, the announcement brings hope of shorter commutes and less time spent in traffic. However, until tangible results emerge, many remain sceptical. The government’s commitment to decongesting the region is clear, but the path ahead requires sustained effort and multi-modal integration.