To enhance road safety and streamline traffic, the Central Government has sanctioned ₹720.67 crores for majorinfrastructure upgrades on the Haridwar-Dehradun Highway, covering a stretch of approximately 37 kilometres from Raiwala to Mohkampur. The project includes the construction of seven new flyovers, service lanes, upgraded junctions, and the closure of several existing road cuts.
The move follows a sharp rise in accidents after the highway’s widening. In response, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), along with the transport department and local police, conducted a joint survey identifying 10 accident-prone zones requiring immediate improvement.
NHAI Director Pankaj Maurya stated that the project aims to decongest traffic by building flyovers, service roads, and barrier-free junctions, with a targeted completion period of two and a half years.
The flyovers and service lanes will be constructed at the following key locations: Raiwala Bazar, Chidderwala Chowk, Laltappad, Shergarh, Majri, Kuwawala, and Lakshmansiddh Chowk.
Concerns Over Haripur Kalan Connectivity
Despite the developments, Haripur Kalan has not been included in the new connectivity plan. After the closure of the old highway due to the new flyover at Motichur and the revival of the Chila-Motichur Wildlife Corridor, over 40,000 residents of Haripur Kalan now lack direct road access to Rishikesh Tehsil. Locals are forced to travel 2–3 km extra via Shantikunj to access the highway. If the road cut near Shantikunj is closed, the situation may worsen.
Impact on Local Businesses
The proposed flyover at Raiwala Bazar has sparked concern among traders, especially hoteliers and dhaba owners, who fear a decline in footfall and business. Former District Panchayat member Divya Belwal urged that locals be consultedbefore work begins and that Haripur Kalan must be connected either via the new flyover or by reopening the old highway.
Demand for Public Disclosure
Raiwala Chowk serves as a key junction connecting Pritinagar, Khandgaon, Goharimafi, Raiwala Cantt, and Raiwala village. District Planning Committee member Rajesh Juglan stressed the importance of publicly disclosing the complete project plan to avoid a repeat of the Haripur Kalan oversight. He also highlighted the need to address persistent issues at the nearby railway crossing before initiating flyover construction.
Local representatives have warned of strong opposition if the project undermines public interest and have called for transparency and community involvement in the execution of the highway upgrade.
