The ambitious Delhi-Mumbai expressway project, which promises to revolutionize Indian infrastructure, has encountered significant delays. Originally set for completion in January 2023, the project has faced multiple setbacks, primarily due to land-related challenges in Gujarat. As per a report by Times of India, two critical segments in Gujarat, totaling 62 kilometers, only saw bidding begin in November 2023. Construction on one segment started in April this year, and the other began just this month. Hence, it is now expected to be completed by 2025
Due to these delays, the revised target of March 2024 has also been missed. Each stretch of the expressway requires at least eighteen months for construction. To speed up the process, the project was divided into smaller segments or 'packages'. Officials assure that they are actively addressing all outstanding land acquisition issues.
Currently, about 630 kilometers of the total 1,386 kilometers have been opened to traffic in various sections. Notable sections include Sohna-Dausa-Sawai Madhopur (293 km) and Jhalawar-MP/Gujarat border (245 km). Authorities are confident that the 845-kilometer stretch from Sohna to Vadodara will be fully operational by March 2025. Subsequent sections, crucially linking to Mumbai's JNPT port, Jewar Airport in Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi's DND Flyway, are expected to follow.
Former National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officials emphasize the importance of timely land acquisition for such large-scale projects and urge state governments to take proactive steps. A former official noted that the biggest hurdle in executing road projects, especially greenfield expressways, is the non-availability of land.
Recently, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways announced contracts worth Rs 3,633 crore and Rs 2,287 crore for constructing 35 kilometers in Valsad and 27 kilometers in Navsari districts, respectively. However, actual construction in these areas has not yet commenced.
Despite significant progress in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, the slow pace in Gujarat remains a concern. With work now initiated across all packages, officials are optimistic that the entire expressway will be operational by October next year, significantly improving connectivity between Delhi and Mumbai.
