In a recent update, India’s first 8-lane tunnel is all set to open on June 20. This is a major upgrade on Delhi-Mumbai Expressway making road trips between Delhi and Mumbai convenient. According to a report by NDTV and other media, the tunnel is one of the most anticipated sections of the expressway built beneath a tiger reserve and will open for traffic on June 20,2026. It is being called an engineering marvel and is built beneath Rajasthan’s Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve close to Kota. For travellers, this means smoother drives and shorter travel times.Let’s find out more about this tunnel:More about the tunnel It’s a 4.9-kilometre twin-tube tunnel. The tunnel will go through the ecologically sensitive Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan. The tunnel will keep traffic underground, minimising disruption to wildlife movement. Reports indicate the tunnel will become operational following final safety clearances, with authorities targeting June 20 for launching date.The project forms part of the Delhi-Vadodara section of the larger Delhi-Mumbai ExpresswayThe ambitious project was initially launched in 2019. Once fully operational, it is expected to reduce travel times between Delhi and Mumbai dramatically. What it means for travellersUntil now, motorists travelling through the Kota region often had to negotiate winding roads around the Mukundra hills. But now with the tunnel bypasses, travel would be easier, comfortable and safer.For road trippers, this means:Reduced time in hilly sectionsImproved driving comfort High-speed travelBetter fuel efficiency Smoother trafficThe tunnel is also expected to improve road connectivity to destinations such as Kota, Bundi, Ranthambore, and many other attractions in Rajasthan.A boost for Rajasthan tourismKota in Rajasthan has long been associated with educational hubs. However, the surrounding region offers plenty for travellers. There is the beautiful Chambal River, some historic forts, pretty palaces, ancient stepwells, and wildlife reserves. Kota is one of the most underrated travel destinations. But the improved connectivity could encourage more visitors. Road construction with conservation This is one of the most remarkable aspects of the project. The emphasis on environmental protection. Building a major highway through a tiger reserve posed obvious challenges, but engineers opted for an underground solution to minimise habitat fragmentation. As per project information released by the National Highways Authority of India, the twin tunnels feature modern safety systems and monitoring infrastructure. What travellers should know before planning a driveIf you’re considering using this stretch once it opens:Check official traffic advisories before departure, as operational dates may shift depending on final inspections.The future of long-distance road travel
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The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is reshaping how Indians travel by road. Once complete, it is expected to cut journey times between the two metropolitan regions substantially while connecting important economic centres across Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra.The opening of the Mukundra Hills tunnel is a reason for rejoicing for travellers and road trippers. It’s so much more than an infrastructure milestone. It represents protecting the environment while making travel convenient.For travellers who enjoy going on road trips, the new tunnel offers a faster route along with an opportunity to drive through one of India’s most technically advanced stretches of highway.
