Travel between Kota and Delhi is set to become significantly smoother as a key stretch of the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway opens to the public later this month. Covering nearly 450 km, the route will drastically cut travel time and reduce congestion. For now, return traffic from Delhi will exit near Kushtala in Sawai Madhopur and use the mega highway via Laban in Bundi until the remaining stretch is completed.

Why the Stretch Is Opening Before Full Completion

According to NHAI officials, growing traffic pressure and long-standing public demand prompted the partial opening of Package 10, even as Package 12 remains under construction. Extensive safety measures have been implemented, including deployment of home guards and systems to prevent wrong-side driving. Only one side of the four-lane access-controlled highway will be operational initially.

Strict Rules and Speed Limits on the Expressway

The expressway will allow only high-speed vehicles, with motorcycles, tractors and three-wheelers barred from entry. Different lanes have been earmarked for varying speeds, with a maximum speed limit of 120 kmph. The toll for a one-way Kota–Delhi journey will be ₹700, while frequent commuters can opt for a ₹3,000 FASTag annual pass allowing 200 trips.

Construction Delays Explained

The delay in opening the Kota–Delhi stretch stemmed from challenges near the Bundi–Sawai Madhopur border. Officials cited prolonged forest clearances and the relocation of high-tension power lines as key hurdles. These issues pushed the opening nearly two years after the expressway’s inauguration.

Mumbai Link Still a Work in Progress

While Delhi connectivity improves, the Mumbai route will take longer. A major bottleneck remains the 4.9-km, eight-lane tunnel under construction in the Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve. Officials expect tunnel work to be completed by April, allowing traffic by May.

Dausa–Kota Stretch to Open by Holi 2026

Adding to the momentum, the Dausa–Kota section of the expressway is expected to open by Holi 2026. Once operational, travel time between the two cities will drop from five hours to just two. The project is expected to boost education, tourism, trade and healthcare across Rajasthan, transforming regional connectivity.

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