Construction of the expressway connecting Ahmedabad to the smart city of Dholera is progressing steadily, with significant milestones achieved. Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari recently provided an update on the status of Greenfield Corridor projects across the country. As of June 30, 2024, construction has been completed for 71 km of the total 109 km stretch of the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway. The minister confirmed that the project is on track for completion within the current financial year, 2024-25.
The Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway is being developed at an estimated cost of ₹4,372 crores. As of the end of June 2024, approximately ₹3,920 crores has already been utilized. This expressway is set to significantly enhance connectivity between Ahmedabad and Dholera, allowing commuters to travel between the two cities in just 40 to 45 minutes once the expressway is operational. This reduction in travel time is expected to facilitate easier access to Dholera, a burgeoning industrial hub, and support the economic development of the region.
In addition to the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway, Gadkari provided updates on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, another critical infrastructure project that passes through Gujarat. He noted that as of June 30, 2024, 1,070 km of the total 1,386 km expressway has been completed. This ambitious project is also projected to be completed by the next financial year, 2025-26.
Regarding the Delhi-Vadodara section of the expressway, the minister reported that only 41 km of work remains, with 804 km already finished. This indicates substantial progress in a key segment of the expressway network. Meanwhile, work on the Vadodara-Mumbai section has seen 214 km completed, though this represents less than half of the total 450 km length of that section.
The overall investment for the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is estimated at around ₹1 lakh crores. To date, the government has incurred an expenditure of ₹56,990 crores for the construction of this critical infrastructure, showcasing a significant commitment to enhancing connectivity and supporting economic growth through improved transportation networks.
The development of these expressways reflects the government’s strategic vision to bolster infrastructure in India, facilitating smoother trade routes, reducing travel times, and fostering regional development. The Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway, in particular, is poised to catalyze growth in Dholera, which is being developed as a smart city with modern amenities and industrial facilities.
Once completed, these expressways will not only improve connectivity but also attract investments, create jobs, and promote industrial activities in the regions they connect. The faster transportation options will likely lead to increased economic activity, making Dholera a more attractive destination for businesses and residents alike.
In summary, the ongoing construction of the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway and updates on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway illustrate the government’s commitment to enhancing India’s transportation infrastructure. With substantial investments and significant progress reported, these projects are set to transform regional connectivity, support economic growth, and position India as a more integrated and accessible nation. The successful completion of these expressways will play a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation and urban development in the country.