Rs 3,500 Crore Highway from Dehradun to Mussoorie to Cut Through Hills via Two Long Tunnels

Mussoorie-bound tourists may soon have a traffic-free journey. Construction has commenced on a 42-kilometer highway connecting Dehradun to Mussoorie, with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) approving the two-lane project at an estimated cost of ₹3,500 crore. The new highway will run from Jhajra to Library Chowk in Mussoorie and feature two major tunnels, designed to make travel faster, safer, and more convenient.

The first tunnel, stretching 2.9 km, will pass beneath the George Everest region, while the second, approximately 2 km long, will traverse the Mussoorie hills. These tunnels will not only reduce the distance but also bypass sharp curves and landslide-prone areas, improving overall safety.

A Third Alternative Route Emerges

Currently, the main route from Dehradun to Mussoorie is heavily congested during peak tourist seasons. The alternative Kiamari route often becomes unusable during rains, sometimes leaving traffic stranded for days. The new highway will serve as a third permanent option, alleviating the strain on existing roads.

NHAI has approved the highway alignment after detailed geographical surveys, and construction will begin following the next phase of planning, according to Project Director Saurabh Singh.

Boost for Tourism and Local Communities

Mussoorie hosts millions of tourists annually, but limited road capacity has long troubled local residents, affecting access to schools, hospitals, and daily commuting. The new national highway is expected to ease traffic pressure, significantly reducing congestion in the town. It will connect Chaskot and Khanij Nagar to NH-707A (Mussoorie Camp-Tiffal route), improving connectivity for surrounding rural areas as well.

Comprehensive Geographical Survey Underway

Considering the project’s sensitivity, NHAI has tasked the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology with conducting a detailed survey of soil quality, hill structure, and landslide risk. The survey is already underway, and a report will guide the construction process.

Project Director’s Statement

“The alignment for the new Dehradun-Mussoorie national highway has been approved. The next phase of construction will commence after the geographical survey,” said NHAI Project Director Saurabh Singh.

A Game-Changer for the ‘Queen of Hills’

Once completed on schedule, the highway will mark a milestone in Mussoorie’s traffic management history. Beyond easing congestion, it will serve as a game-changer for tourism, disaster management, and regional development. The tunnel-based highway preserves the hills’ natural beauty while setting a benchmark for modern infrastructure.