To ease traffic congestion during the Kanwar Yatra, the yet-to-be-inaugurated stretch of the Doon-Delhi Expressway between Biharigarh and Asharodi may temporarily open for light vehicles from July 12 to 23. Acting on Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s instructions, Principal Secretary R.K. Sudhanshu has requested NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav to allow its use during the Yatra period.
Given the expected surge in pilgrims from other states, the Delhi-Haridwar highway and adjoining routes are likely to witness heavy traffic. Officials see the expressway as a viable alternate route to manage the pressure. The request to open the road segment has also been communicated to the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and NHAI.
Only two- and four-wheelers will be allowed on the expressway; heavy vehicles like trucks and buses will continue using the existing routes. The temporary opening is expected to reduce congestion and facilitate smooth travel toward Delhi. Notably, Rajya Sabha MP Naresh Bansal had also urged the CM to ensure the expressway is opened during the pilgrimage.
