Dehradun: To tackle worsening traffic congestion in the state capital, the Public Works Department (PWD) is preparing to construct a four-lane elevated road on one of Dehradun’s busiest traffic corridors. The proposed project will connect Rispana Bridge near Chanchal Dairy to Araghar Chowk and is estimated to cost ₹183.97 crore.
The corridor passes through key locations including Dharampur and Araghar, areas that regularly witness heavy traffic jams during peak hours. Officials believe the elevated road will significantly improve traffic flow and reduce travel time for commuters.
The proposed elevated corridor will be developed along State Highway-85, linking important routes such as Rajpur Road, Saharanpur Road, ISBT and the road leading to Mussoorie. The project is expected to bring a major transformation to the city’s urban transport infrastructure.
According to the department, the corridor is currently operating beyond its intended capacity. Traffic studies show that approximately 62,733 passenger car units use the route every day, while around 4,125 passenger car units pass through Araghar Chowk during peak hours.
Apart from the elevated roadway, the project will include service roads, retaining walls, drainage infrastructure, utility shifting works, safety measures and quality control systems. Necessary land acquisition and compensation for affected property owners will also be carried out as part of the project.
One of the primary objectives is to create a signal-free traffic corridor. Once completed, vehicles travelling through Dharampur and Araghar intersections will no longer have to stop repeatedly at traffic signals, resulting in smoother movement.
Officials expect the project to reduce traffic congestion, fuel consumption and carbon emissions while also improving road safety by minimizing conflict points and cross-traffic movements.
PWD Chief Engineer Rajesh Sharma said that traffic surveys, feasibility studies and preliminary design work have already been completed. Cost estimates have been prepared and land requirements identified. The department has also examined possible overlaps with the proposed metro project to avoid future technical complications. The next phase will focus on detailed engineering design, land acquisition and construction planning.
