The master plan of Dwarka Expressway, once a conceptual blueprint, is now shaping up to be the backbone of connectivity between Delhi and Gurugram. This transformative infrastructure project is a result of meticulous planning, aimed at decongesting existing routes and enhancing urban mobility. This blog explores the master plan of Dwarka Expressway, its origins, challenges, and the immense potential it holds for real estate and economic development.
From Vision to Reality: Conceptualizing the Expressway
The need for an alternative route between Delhi and Gurugram arose due to the heavy congestion on NH 48 and the Mehrauli-Gurugram Road. The master plan of Dwarka Expressway was first introduced under the Gurugram Master Plan 2021, conceptualized as the Northern Peripheral Road (NPR). Initially, it was planned to connect Dwarka in Delhi to Palam Vihar in Gurugram.
As per the revised master plan of Dwarka Expressway under the 2025 vision, the expressway was extended to connect NH 48 at Kherki Dhaula. Spanning approximately 18 km, the 8-lane, 150-meter wide expressway now begins at Shiv Murti in Mahipalpur and terminates at Kherki Dhaula toll plaza, providing seamless connectivity between Delhi, Gurugram, and Manesar.
Mapping the Micro-Market: Sectors Along the Expressway
The announcement of the master plan of Dwarka Expressway sparked a surge in residential real estate development along its route. Key residential sectors include 109, 113, 37D, 88B, 105, and 99, while commercial sectors such as 105, 106, 109, 110, 110A, 111, 112, and 113 are also planned under the Gurugram Manesar Urban Complex (GMUC) Draft Development Plan 2031.
Overcoming Hurdles: Land Acquisition and Project Progress
The implementation of the master plan of Dwarka Expressway faced significant delays due to land acquisition disputes, affecting new residential supply and leading to prolonged project delays. However, recent government interventions have resolved major roadblocks, fast-tracking the completion of pending sections and reigniting investor confidence.
Connectivity as the Core Advantage
The master plan of Dwarka Expressway prioritizes connectivity as its core advantage. Once fully operational, it will drastically reduce travel time to Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), which currently takes about 45 minutes via NH 48.
Additional connectivity benefits include:
Direct access to Delhi and IGI Airport
Seamless links to Gurugram Cyber City and NH 48
Proximity to Manesar’s industrial hub and Maruti Suzuki India Ltd.
A BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) corridor and a 5 km tunnel connecting directly to Terminal 3 of IGI Airport are also part of the broader master plan of Dwarka Expressway, boosting residential and commercial demand along the corridor.
Real Estate Market Dynamics: Past Trends and Future Potential
Between 2013 and 2015, the master plan of Dwarka Expressway led to the launch of over 29,100 residential units. However, litigation slowed new supply, causing a 50% decline in 2016. Despite these challenges, average property prices in the region have consistently appreciated, reaching ₹5,200 per sq. ft. in Q1 2018, marking a 12% increase from Q1 2015.
With the clearance of project hurdles, the master plan of Dwarka Expressway is set to drive a surge in real estate activity. The growing saturation of office spaces in Gurugram has positioned this corridor as the next IT-ITeS hub, attracting businesses due to its superior connectivity.
Current Status and the Road Ahead
As of July 2024, the 34.10 km-long master plan of Dwarka Expressway (NH 248-BB) is partially operational. The 19 km Haryana section was inaugurated on March 11, 2024, with Packages 3 and 4 in Gurugram now accessible. Other sections remain under construction or in re-tendering stages.
Designed as an access-controlled highway, the master plan of Dwarka Expressway incorporates advanced infrastructure, including India's first grade-separated urban expressway. While a metro line along the expressway has been proposed by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), approval from the Haryana Government is still pending.
Conclusion: A Master Plan for Growth and Connectivity
The master plan of Dwarka Expressway has laid the foundation for a transformative infrastructure project poised to redefine urban mobility in the NCR. Overcoming initial setbacks, the project is nearing full completion and is expected to unlock significant economic and real estate growth. With enhanced connectivity, improved urban planning, and increasing investor confidence, the master plan of Dwarka Expressway is steadily turning into a reality, positioning it as a pivotal component in the future of Delhi and Gurugram’s urban landscape.
