NHAI Feasibility Study Begins for Underground Tunnel Linking IGI and Jewar

NEW DELHI, June 10, 2026 — Commuters in the National Capital Region (NCR) may soon witness a transformative shift in transit as the Centre initiates a feasibility study for a dedicated underground tunnel connecting Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport and the upcoming Noida International Airport (NIA) in Jewar. The project, spearheaded by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), seeks to provide a seamless link between India’s primary aviation hub and its newest greenfield airport, which is scheduled to begin commercial flight operations on June 15, 2026.

Two-Phase Strategy for NCR Connectivity

The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has divided the proposed tunnel project into two strategic phases to ensure comprehensive coverage across Delhi, Gurugram, and Noida.

• Phase 1: Focuses on a tunnel route extending from Talkatora Stadium in Central Delhi toward IGI Airport and Gurugram.

• Phase 2: Explores an extension from Talkatora Stadium to Sarai Kale Khan. This section is expected to link directly with the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway.

Once connected to the expressway, travelers can utilize the Chandawali-Jewar link road to reach the Noida International Airport. Officials believe this network will create one of the few regions globally where two major international airports are linked by a high-speed, signal-free underground corridor.

Multiple Entry and Exit Points Planned

A defining feature of the proposed tunnel is the inclusion of multiple access points to maximize utility for local commuters. According to preliminary plans, a major entrance near Talkatora Stadium will serve as a gateway for residents in Central and West Delhi.

This design is expected to significantly benefit residents in high-traffic areas such as:

• Connaught Place

• Karol Bagh

• Patel Nagar

• Rajendra Place

By entering the tunnel at these points, motorists can bypass the perennially congested Outer Ring Road and reach IGI Airport or the Jewar link in a fraction of the current travel time.

Impact on Regional Transit and Investors

The tunnel is projected to reduce the travel time between Sarai Kale Khan and IGI Airport from the current 45–60 minutes to approximately 15–20 minutes. For businesses and logistics providers, this high-speed link offers a more predictable supply chain route between the industrial hubs of Noida and the cargo facilities at IGI.

Investors in the real estate sectors of Yamuna Expressway and Greater Noida are closely monitoring the development. The launch of commercial flights at Jewar on June 15, coupled with this proposed tunnel, is expected to drive further appreciation in land value and commercial interest in the region.

Official Sources Section

The details regarding the feasibility study and the tunnel's alignment are based on:

• Ministry Announcements: Official statements from Harsh Malhotra, Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways.

• Government Records: Recent Press Information Bureau (PIB) releases regarding NCR infrastructure milestones.

• Project Reports: Preliminary alignment studies currently being reviewed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

Quote Section

"Studies have already been initiated to construct a tunnel road from Talkatora Stadium to IGI Airport and Gurugram. The project is currently in its preliminary stages, and a detailed project report (DPR) will be prepared once the alignment is finalized."
 — Harsh Malhotra, Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways

Why It Matters

For travelers, this tunnel represents a "transit bypass" that avoids Delhi's surface-level gridlock. As Noida International Airport begins operations this month, the ability to transfer between NIA and IGI without exiting into city traffic will be critical for international passengers and long-haul commuters.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Primary Objective: Direct, signal-free connectivity between Delhi's IGI and Noida's Jewar Airport.

• Current Status: Feasibility study underway by NHAI; alignment yet to be finalized.

• Key Entry Point: Talkatora Stadium in Central Delhi.

• Secondary Benefit: Future extension plans to Gurugram to ease the Delhi-Gurugram Expressway load.

FAQ Section

Q: When will the tunnel be open for the public? A: The project is currently in the feasibility study phase. A specific completion date will be announced only after the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is approved and construction begins.

Q: Can local commuters use this tunnel, or is it only for airport travelers? A: The plan includes multiple entry and exit points, meaning residents of central Delhi can use it to bypass city traffic even if they are not heading to the airport.

Q: Is there an alternative way to travel between the two airports currently? A: Currently, travelers must use the Yamuna Expressway and DND Flyway or the Magenta Line of the Delhi Metro, which involves multiple transfers and surface-level traffic.

Source: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, National Highways Authority of India, Press Information Bureau.