Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway Nearing Completion; Set to Transform Connectivity by 2024
The ambitious Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway, a key infrastructure project aimed at connecting Ahmedabad with the upcoming smart city of Dholera, is progressing at a remarkable pace. Once operational, the 109-km stretch will slash travel time between the two cities to just 40–45 minutes, boosting economic activity and regional development.
A ₹3,600 Crore Mega Project
Being built at a cost of ₹3,600 crore, the expressway is divided into four construction packages. Packages 1, 2, and 3 are being expanded from 6 to 8 lanes, while Package 4 is designed as an 8-lane highway with the provision to expand to 12 lanes in the future.
Progress Across Packages
- Package 4 (38 km) – Built on a brownfield alignment, it will ultimately handle 12 lanes but will initially open with 8. A two-lane road is already functional, and structures for underpasses are ready. Work near the Ahmedabad-side interchange is pending.
- Package 3 (22.5 km) – This section will directly link to the Dholera International Airport. Elevated stretches are taking shape with completed pillars, and underpass structures are ready. Ramp construction is in progress.
- Package 1 – Largely complete, with lanes ready and only plantation and lane markings pending. Overpass structures over canals are finished, with flooring work underway.
- Ahmedabad Entry Point (SP Ring Road Interchange) – Half the interchange is nearly complete; the other half is in the final stages of earthwork and road leveling.
Eco-Friendly Engineering
In a noteworthy green initiative, processed waste from Ahmedabad’s Pirana Dump Yard is being used in the embankment layer of the expressway, showcasing sustainable construction practices.
Opening Timeline
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) aims to open select sections by April 2024, with the entire expressway expected to be fully operational by December 2024.
Once complete, the Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway will not only enhance travel efficiency but also unlock new opportunities in trade, industry, and tourism for one of India’s most ambitious smart city projects.
