New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated the Delhi–Dehradun Economic Corridor in Dehradun, marking a major step in infrastructure development in Uttarakhand and the surrounding region.
Addressing the gathering, the prime minister extended greetings on the occasion of Baisakhi, Bohag Bihu, and Puthandu, noting that the inauguration coincided with festive celebrations across the country.
Speaking about the Delhi–Dehradun Economic Corridor, he said the project will reduce travel time and logistics costs while improving connectivity. He added that the corridor has generated employment and will benefit farmers by enabling faster access to markets. He noted that cities such as Ghaziabad, Baghpat, Baraut, Shamli, and Saharanpur will also gain from improved connectivity. He said the corridor will open opportunities in trade, logistics, and industry.
The prime minister said the expressway will enhance tourism in Uttarakhand by improving access to Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mussoorie, and the Char Dham circuit. He added that tourism growth supports local businesses, including hotels, transport, and homestays.
He highlighted that the project includes a nearly 12-kilometre elevated wildlife corridor to ensure minimal disturbance to animals. He urged visitors to maintain cleanliness and avoid plastic waste in ecologically sensitive areas, according to an official statement.
He paid respects to the sacred land of Devbhoomi and noted that the Char Dham Yatra, covering Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, will begin soon. He said that millions of devotees across India eagerly await the pilgrimage every year. He also offered prayers to Panch Badri, Panch Kedar, Panch Prayag, and local deities, including Maa Sankatla and Maa Daat Kali.
Marking the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Modi paid tribute and said that the government has worked to uphold constitutional values and support the poor and marginalised.
He said Uttarakhand continues to witness rapid development and added that the new corridor will accelerate growth in the state. He noted that infrastructure plays a key role in shaping the nation’s future.
Highlighting investment trends, he said annual infrastructure spending has increased significantly over the years and noted that projects worth over Rs 2.25 lakh crore are currently underway in Uttarakhand.
The prime minister also referred to recent developments in the region, including the expansion of the Delhi Metro, metro services in Meerut, the Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat Rail, and the development of the Noida International Airport.
Referring to upcoming events, he called for coordinated efforts to ensure a successful and clean Kumbh Mela in Haridwar next year. He also spoke about the cultural significance of the Nanda Devi Rajjat Yatra.
On women’s empowerment, the prime minister said the government remains committed to enhancing women’s participation and noted that Parliament has passed legislation to provide reservations for women in legislatures.
He also highlighted welfare measures for ex-servicemen, including pension benefits, healthcare support, and financial assistance schemes.
Concluding his address, he said development must balance progress with nature and culture. He congratulated the people of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand on the inauguration of the corridor and said such projects will contribute to building a developed India.
