Delhi-Gurugram Tunnel: Centre Considers High-Speed Link to Cut Travel Time to 15 Minutes

In a major infrastructural push to ease traffic congestion in the National Capital Region (NCR), Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has revealed plans for a high-speed tunnel connecting Talkatora Stadium in New Delhi to Gurugram. The ambitious project, currently under a detailed feasibility study, could potentially slash the current travel time of one hour to just 10–15 minutes.

“We are planning to build a tunnel... from Talkatora Stadium to Gurugram. The study is ongoing and a consultant has been appointed,” Gadkari confirmed in an interview with Mint.

Big Investment to Decongest Delhi

The tunnel forms part of a much larger plan by the Centre to improve Delhi’s mobility. Gadkari disclosed that the government has earmarked ₹1 lakh crore for projects aimed at decongesting Delhi roads, with ₹30,000–₹40,000 crore specifically allocated for the capital.

The need for such infrastructure is evident. Data from the Vahan portal indicates that between 2024–25, Delhi added over 4.5 lakh two-wheelers, 1.9 lakh cars, and nearly 20,000 heavy vehicles, pushing its road network to the limit and further worsening air quality.

Gadkari reiterated that beyond reducing traffic congestion, the project’s objective is to make Delhi cleaner and pollution-free.

Strategic Urban Mobility: More Tunnels on the Cards

Apart from the Delhi-Gurugram tunnel, two additional high-speed links are also under consideration:

A tunnel or elevated road from Sarai Kale Khan to the INA-Nelson Mandela Marg corridor.

Another underground link from Gyarah Murti or Talkatora Stadium to Nelson Mandela Marg, passing through Vasant Kunj and Mahipalpur.

Both links were discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by Gadkari on June 4, attended by Delhi Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

These links will likely be incorporated in the tendering process for the INA–Mahipalpur elevated corridor, adding a multi-modal dimension to Delhi’s future transport map.

A Tunnel That Could Transform NCR Commute

If realised, the 28–30 km tunnel between central Delhi and Gurugram will become one of the fastest urban transit routes in India, enhancing connectivity, fuel efficiency, and commuter safety, while reducing vehicular emissions.

The feasibility study will determine the final route, cost estimates, environmental impact, and construction timeline. Once approved, this project is expected to redefine travel between Delhi and Haryana, serving as a blueprint for future urban transport solutions in India.