Construction of a key bypass aimed at decongesting traffic in Dehradun and improving regional connectivity is progressing steadily, with nearly 44 per cent of the work already completed, said the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
The 12-kilometre-long greenfield, four-lane access-controlled highway is being developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) at an estimated cost of ₹716 crore and is expected to be completed by April 2027.
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) said that the strategically planned bypass will connect Jhajhra to the Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor near the Asharori check post, linking it with the Paonta Saheb-Ballupur section of NH-7. Designed as an alternate south-western route, the project aims to divert non-destined traffic away from Dehradun’s urban core, thereby reducing congestion and vehicular pollution in the city.
Once operational, the bypass will significantly enhance connectivity to key areas such as Selaqui industrial zone, Vikasnagar and Herbertpur in Uttarakhand, as well as Paonta Sahib in Himachal Pradesh. It will also strengthen inter-state connectivity with northern states including Haryana, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh via the Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor.
The highway has been designed with sustainability in mind. While the design speed is set at 100 kmph, certain stretches will have regulated speeds of 80 kmph to minimise environmental impact. The right of way has been optimised to 30 metres – half the conventional width – to reduce tree cutting and preserve forest cover.
Given that parts of the alignment pass through forest areas, several wildlife protection measures have been incorporated. These include a 350-metre-long vehicular overpass and a dedicated cattle underpass to facilitate safe movement of animals. Additionally, seven minor bridges, 21 box culverts and five Hume pipe culverts are being constructed to support the movement of both large and small fauna.
Safety and ecological protection are further being strengthened through continuous fencing along the route and installation of signage indicating speed limits and wildlife zones, aimed at reducing human-animal conflict.
The Ministry said that the project will improve access to popular tourist destinations such as Mussoorie, providing a boost to tourism in the region. Once completed, the bypass will significantly enhance urban mobility and improve the overall quality of life for residents of Dehradun.
