Narendra Modi inaugurates Delhi-Dehradun corridor: How will it reshape the region?

Expressway to boost Uttarakhand’s growth

Describing the project as a catalyst for growth, Modi said the expressway would inject fresh momentum into the state’s development journey. Reflecting on Uttarakhand entering its 26th year of statehood, he reiterated his earlier assertion that the third decade of this century would belong to the state.

“With the government’s policies and the hard work of its people, this young state continues to scale new heights,” he said, adding, “This expressway will give fresh momentum to Uttarakhand’s growth.”

Infrastructure push gathers pace nationwide

Emphasising the role of infrastructure in nation-building, Modi remarked that a country’s future is shaped by its roads, highways, railways, airways and waterways. He highlighted the sharp rise in infrastructure spending, noting that annual investments have grown from under ₹2 lakh crore before 2014 to over ₹12 lakh crore today.

“In Uttarakhand alone, infrastructure projects worth more than ₹2.25 lakh crore are currently underway,” he said.

Major projects transforming Delhi-UP-Uttarakhand belt

Listing key developments in the Delhi-Western Uttar Pradesh-Uttarakhand belt, the Prime Minister pointed to the expansion of the Delhi Metro, the launch of metro services in Meerut, the inauguration of the Namo Bharat Rail, and progress on the Noida International Airport and its MRO facility.

“Imagine the scale at which infrastructure is being built across the country—what we see in this region is just a glimpse,” he said.

Corridor to cut travel time, boost jobs and trade

Highlighting the benefits of the corridor, Modi said the expressway would significantly reduce travel time and logistics costs, leading to fuel savings and lower freight charges. With an investment of around ₹12,000 crore already made, the project has also generated employment for thousands of engineers, labourers and transport workers.

He added that farmers and livestock rearers would benefit from faster access to larger markets.

The corridor, which passes through Ghaziabad, Baghpat, Baraut, Shamli and Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh, is expected to boost trade, industry, warehousing and logistics across the region.

“This is not just a road; it opens new avenues of economic opportunity,” Modi said.

Tourism set for major uplift

The Prime Minister also highlighted the tourism potential of the project, noting improved access to key destinations such as Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh and Mussoorie, as well as the Char Dham circuit.

He said Uttarakhand is emerging as a major hub for winter tourism, adventure sports and destination weddings, adding that year-round tourism is crucial for the state’s economy. Citing data, Modi noted a sharp rise in pilgrim footfall to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat, as well as increased participation in the Winter Char Dham Yatra.

“When tourism grows, everyone benefits—hotels, dhabas, taxis and homestays,” he said.

Balancing development with environment

Underscoring the importance of sustainable development, Modi highlighted the construction of a nearly 12-kilometre elevated wildlife corridor along the expressway to ensure minimal disruption to animals, including elephants.

“Our effort is to ensure that while infrastructure serves people, wildlife and natural heritage are also protected,” he said, urging visitors to keep the region clean and free of plastic waste.

Focus on cultural heritage and upcoming events

Looking ahead, Modi called for preparations to make the upcoming Kumbh Mela in Haridwar grand and environmentally responsible. He also referred to the Nanda Devi Rajjat Yatra as a symbol of India’s living cultural heritage.

Push for women’s empowerment

On women’s empowerment, the Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing women’s safety and participation in governance. He highlighted the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, which provides 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.

He announced that a special discussion on the issue will be held in Parliament from April 16 and urged all political parties to support its implementation ahead of the 2029 general elections.

“This is the aspiration of every daughter and sister of the country, and we must fulfil it together,” Modi said.