Delhi’s Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II): A Game-Changer for Connectivity
Delhi’s traffic congestion has long been a challenge for commuters and residents alike. In response, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated the preparatory work to extend the Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II). This extension aims to link UER-II with the Delhi-Saharanpur Expressway, creating a major bypass and diverting freight and long-distance traffic away from the city’s central roads.
Why the UER-II Extension Matters
Delhi constantly faces congestion, particularly on the inner and outer ring roads and major highways like NH-44 and NH-48. By connecting UER-II to the expressway, NHAI plans to redirect traffic coming from Haryana and Rajasthan. This move will ease pressure on city roads, reduce travel time, and lower vehicle emissions.
The extension will serve multiple purposes:
- Provide a direct route for vehicles heading towards Dehradun and other northern destinations.
- Divert freight vehicles away from congested city roads.
- Improve connectivity to Gurugram and other neighboring areas.
Overall, this project forms a crucial part of Delhi’s broader decongestion plan, which includes highways, tunnels, and high-mobility corridors around the city.
Project Details and Route
The proposed extension will start at the Alipur end of UER-II and stretch 17 kilometers to Tronica City on NH-709B. The NHAI expects the project cost to exceed ₹3,350 crore. Currently, NHAI has invited bids for consultancy services to conduct a feasibility study and prepare a detailed project report (DPR) over five months, costing ₹2.32 crore.
During the planning phase, the feasibility study will include:
- Traffic analysis and alignment options
- Topographical surveys and lane configuration finalization
- Assessment of utilities like power and water lines
- Forest clearance requirements
- Socioeconomic impact evaluation
The second phase will focus on the structural and technical design of the corridor. This includes hydrological and soil investigations, intersection design, drainage planning, cost estimation, tolling schemes, and traffic signage planning.
Addressing Local Concerns
While the extension promises better connectivity, local residents have voiced concerns. Villagers in north Delhi have protested against a toll plaza on the Mundka-Bakkarwala stretch. NHAI will need to manage these concerns carefully to ensure smooth project implementation.
Additionally, the project will address safety issues related to stray cattle on highways. NHAI plans to identify suitable locations for cattle shelters along the corridor, using surplus land within the road’s right-of-way wherever possible. These shelters will include cattle sheds, fodder storage, feeding areas, and basic amenities for caretakers. This step will enhance safety and reduce road accidents caused by stray animals.
Long-Term Impact
Once completed, the UER-II extension will act as a key bypass for traffic heading to north, west, south, and southwest Delhi, as well as Gurugram. Vehicles will move efficiently through UER-II and the Dwarka Expressway, avoiding congested city routes.
Looking ahead, NHAI plans a second eastern extension, connecting Tronica City to Noida via Ghaziabad, spanning 65 kilometers. This vision will further integrate Delhi’s highway network, providing faster and safer routes for commuters and freight transport.
Real Estate Perspective
The UER-II extension is expected to have a significant impact on the real estate market in the surrounding areas.
Sanjeev Singh, Managing Director of SKJ Landbase commented on the project’s potential:
“The UER-II extension will not only ease traffic congestion but also open up new avenues for real estate development. Improved connectivity will attract both residential and commercial investments, transforming the region into a thriving hub.”
As connectivity improves, areas along the UER-II corridor are likely to see increased demand for residential and commercial properties, boosting the local economy and providing better opportunities for residents.
Conclusion
The UER-II extension represents a significant step in decongesting Delhi and improving urban mobility. With careful planning, addressing local concerns, and incorporating safety measures like cattle shelters, this project promises smoother traffic flow, reduced travel times, and better connectivity for both residents and businesses.
As Delhi continues to grow, such infrastructural developments will play a vital role in shaping a modern, efficient, and safer transport network for the city and surrounding regions.
