New Delhi: Delhi-Katra Expressway project is set to improve connectivity between Ludhiana and several key cities in North India, including Delhi and Jammu. A report from National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) provided an update on the progress of the project in Ludhiana district, with work on two key sections of the highway scheduled for completion in the coming months.
According to the status report, the first section of the expressway is expected to be completed by the end of September, while the second section is set for completion by March next year. Additionally, the NHAI official mentioned that the government has targeted the end of June for completing the road from Delhi to the outskirts of Ludhiana, near Bhogiwal.
Key features
Delhi-Katra Expressway, part of the larger highway project, spans 35.09 kilometers in Ludhiana, of which 22 kilometers are in Ludhiana district and the remaining stretch is in Malerkotla district. As of the latest update, physical progress on the project stands at 31.08%, with financial progress at 27.12%. The target completion date for this section is set for March 2026.
Another section of the highway, Package Nine, which spans 43.04 kilometers, includes around 16 kilometers in Ludhiana district. This section is progressing well, with 57.82% physical progress and 52.97% financial progress. The completion date for Package Nine is also set for March 2026.
An NHAI official highlighted that work on the expressway has been expedited after resolving land acquisition issues with farmers. With 100% land possession in Ludhiana, the project is expected to meet its target completion dates. However, the civil administration’s support is needed to finalize land acquisition in certain areas of Sangrur and Malerkotla districts.
Expressway to reduce travel time
The project, which began in 2020 with survey work and construction in Ludhiana in 2022, will cover 38 kilometers in Ludhiana. The expressway will pass through 24 villages in the district, including areas in Ludhiana East, Ludhiana West, and Jagraon Tehsil.
Once completed, the expressway is expected to significantly reduce travel times, benefiting both residents and businesses. Sanjay Sharma, a local businessman, expressed optimism, stating that the expressway will allow quicker access to Delhi and other North Indian cities for business purposes. Raj Kumar, a resident, added that the new route will make it easier for devotees traveling to the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra.
