Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway: A Game Changer for Travel and Economy

Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway to Cut Travel Time by 4-6 Hours

The Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway is set to improve road connectivity, reduce travel time, and boost economic growth. Although the project has faced delays due to land issues and rising costs, it will significantly enhance road travel efficiency.

Faster and Better Connectivity

The expressway, planned under the Bharatmala Pariyojana in 2019, will connect Delhi, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir. It will span 669 kilometers, starting from Bahadurgarh in Haryana and ending at Katra in Jammu and Kashmir.

In Punjab, the expressway will pass through major cities like Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Gurdaspur, Patiala, Sangrur, and Maler Kotla. This state will have the longest section of the expressway, covering nearly 295.51 kilometers.

Travel Time to Reduce Significantly

According to NHAI regional officer Vipnesh Sharma, the new expressway will greatly reduce travel time. The Delhi-Katra journey, which currently takes 14 hours over 727 kilometers, will be reduced to just 6 hours, covering 588 kilometers. Similarly, the Delhi to Amritsar travel time will be cut from 8 hours to only 4 hours.

Project Phases and Progress

The project is being developed in two phases.

• Phase 1: This phase covers the Delhi-Nakodar-Gurdaspur section, a 397-kilometer stretch. It also includes a 99-kilometer greenfield spur from Nakodar to Amritsar.
• Phase 2: Focuses on the Gurdaspur-Pathankot-Jammu-Katra section. This phase will upgrade existing highways for better connectivity.

In Jammu and Kashmir, 120 out of 135 kilometers are under development. In Haryana, work is in progress on 137 kilometers. However, in Punjab, land acquisition delays have affected the 296-kilometer stretch, leading to slow progress.

Cost Increases and Land Issues

The project was initially estimated to cost Rs 25,000 crore, but now the cost has risen to Rs 38,905 crore. This increase is due to land acquisition challenges, as landowners are demanding higher compensation.

Modern Infrastructure for a Smooth Journey

The expressway is designed as a four-lane access-controlled corridor, with plans to expand it to eight lanes in the future. It will include essential facilities such as ambulances, fire brigades, traffic police stations, trauma centers, bus bays, and truck stops. These features will ensure a smooth and safe travel experience.

Once completed, the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway will reduce travel time and promote trade, tourism, and regional development.

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