Modi was speaking at an event in Dehradun where he dedicated the 210-km, six-lane, access-controlled Delhi-Dehradun Expressway to the nation.
“Infrastructure projects worth more than ₹2.25 lakh crore are currently underway in Uttarakhand alone,” he said, adding that the expressway will give fresh momentum to the state’s growth.
The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, built at an investment of ₹12,000 crore, is expected to reduce travel time and costs for commuters, leading to fuel savings and lower freight charges. “With an investment of ₹12,000 crore already infused into construction, the project has emerged as a major employment engine, providing livelihoods to thousands of engineers, labourers and transport workers,” he said.
The expressway includes a nearly 12-km elevated wildlife corridor designed to ensure no disruption to animals, including elephants.
Modi said farmers and animal herders will also benefit as their produce reaches larger markets faster.
He added that the corridor, passing through Ghaziabad, Baghpat, Baraut, Shamli and Saharanpur, is set to revitalise these cities in Uttar Pradesh as well.
“This is not just a road; it opens new avenues for trade, industry, warehousing and logistics across the entire region,” he said. Highlighting tourism potential, Modi said Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mussoorie and the Char Dham circuit will become more accessible. “Uttarakhand is increasingly becoming a premier destination for winter tourism, winter sports and destination weddings,” he said.