Widening to 2L+PS from km 156.900 to km 175.00 (Dugadda to Gumkhal) of NH-534 (old NH-119) on EPC mode in the state of Uttarakhand.
Location
The project pertains to widening of National Highway NH-534 (Old NH-119) to a two-lane configuration with paved shoulders (2L+PS) from Km 156.900 to Km 175.000, covering the Dugadda–Gumkhal section in the State of Uttarakhand. The project is proposed to be implemented on Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode in accordance with applicable IRC and MoRTH standards.
Background and Problem Statement
The Stretch from Kotdwar to Srinagar of NH 534 is with NH PWD. From Satpuli to Paidul wideing to 2 lane is already completed. Widening to 2 lane from single lane of stretch Gumkhal to Saatpuli and Paidul to Srinagar is in progress. For widening of stretch from Kotdwar to Dugadda, DPR consultancy tender is being invited by RO MoRTH office. For stretch Dugadda to Gumkhal, the project is sanctioned on 23-01-2026 for Rs 392.52 Cr. The tender has been invited. The project stretch is located in the hilly region of Uttarakhand and traverses terrain characterized by sharp horizontal curves, steep gradients, landslide-prone zones, and dense forest cover. The alignment forms part of an important highway network providing connectivity to key hill destinations and supporting both regional mobility and tourism-related traffic. The challenging topography and environmental sensitivity of the area impose constraints on road geometry, right-of-way availability, and construction activities.
The existing highway section serves as a critical arterial route for movement of passengers and goods, particularly catering to local residents, tourists, and commercial traffic. However, the current road configuration is inadequate to handle the increasing traffic demand. Over the years, the pavement has suffered distress due to heavy rainfall, slope instability, and repeated landslides. Limited carriageway width, substandard geometrics, and insufficient drainage have resulted in traffic congestion, reduced operating speeds, safety hazards, and increased vehicle operating costs, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Project Concept and Need
In view of the growing traffic volume and the strategic importance of the corridor, the project has been conceptualized to upgrade the existing highway to a standard two-lane with paved shoulders facility. The proposed improvement aims to enhance road capacity, safety, riding quality, and operational efficiency, while also improving resilience against adverse weather conditions prevalent in hilly terrain.
The proposed project involves development of a two-lane highway along the Dugadda–Gumkhal section of NH-534, having a total length of 18.10 km, on the existing alignment through hilly terrain. The corridor presently carries a traffic volume of about 7,416 PCUs per day, as observed during traffic surveys conducted in January 2025. The existing right of way along the project stretch is limited, varying between 8.0 m and 9.0 m, which is inadequate to cater to present traffic demand and safety requirements. To accommodate the proposed two-lane configuration with paved shoulders and associated roadway features, the right of way is proposed to be widened to 24.0 m in open areas and 18.0 m in built-up sections, in line with applicable IRC and MoRTH standards.
Key Components and Features
The project involves the widening and strengthening of the existing carriageway. Key technical components include
Widening and strengthening: Widening and strengthening of the existing carriageway, improvement of horizontal and vertical alignment, easing of sharp curves, and rehabilitation of the pavement structure.
Drainage: 149 RCC box culverts are proposed as new construction to provide adequate cross-drainage along the corridor. These include 147 numbers of 1.5 m × 1.5 m culverts and one each of 2.0 m × 2.0 m and 3.0 m × 3.0 m culverts.
Junction: A total of seven junctions is included in the project, comprising two major junctions at Lansdowne (connecting to MDR and SH) and five minor junctions on PMGSY and village roads, all designed as three-legged T-type intersections.
Protection: Considering the hilly terrain, slope protection works include construction of random rubble masonry retaining walls (1,680 m) and breast walls (12,180 m), with heights varying from 3 m to 8 m. In addition, slope stabilization measures are proposed at 14 locations over a length of about 1,150 m, involving suitable protective measures such as gravity walls, anchored cladding, cable net systems, self-drilling anchors, and shotcrete.
Beneficiaries and Coverage
Development of NH-534 (Old NH-119) will significantly enhance connectivity between the states of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh and provide improved access to the Lansdowne Cantonment area. The highway, forming an important link between Kotdwar, Lansdowne, Pauri, and Srinagar, holds strategic importance as an alternate route for the Char Dham Yatra and for defence movement. The corridor also plays a vital administrative role, as Pauri houses the office of the Commissioner of the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.
Upgradation of the highway to a two-lane standard is expected to substantially improve road user safety, reduce travel time, and lower fuel consumption. The improved road infrastructure will contribute to a significant reduction in road accidents and enhance travel comfort. Overall, the project will support economic growth, promote tourism, and stimulate economic activity in the region, thereby contributing to the socio-economic development of Uttarakhand.
Expected Benefits and Outcomes
- Improved Connectivity: Seamless travel experience between the states of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh
- Tourism Boost: Enhanced accessibility to the Lansdowne Cantonment area, Pauri and Srinagar.
- Economic Growth: Improved road conditions will encourage the development of local resorts and homestays, generating employment for local residents.
- Safety: The slope protection work and construction of retaining walls and breast walls involving suitable protective measures such as gravity walls, anchored cladding, cable net systems, self-drilling anchors, and shotcrete of will significantly reduce road closing in Rainy season and accident risks.
- Local Convenience: Easier and faster commute for the local population to markets and essential services
Current Status of the Project
At present, the project has achieved key preparatory milestones, including sanction of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) amounting to ₹392.52 crore, along with progress in tendering, Land acquisition for the project has progressed through key statutory stages. Notification under Section 3(A) was issued on 29.08.2017, followed by notification under Section 3(D) on 28.08.2018. Preparation of awards under Section 3(G) is currently under process. With respect to forest land, Stage-II Forest Clearance has been granted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) on 14.08.2024, and tree cutting activities have been completed.
Implementation Plan / Next Steps.
Tender invited vide SE NH 10th Circle PWD Dehradun letter no.215/13-Yata-NH-10/2025 dt 20.01.2026.Bids will be opened 09.03.2026. The estimated completion timeline is March 2028.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the proposed widening and upgradation of the highway is a vital infrastructure initiative that addresses existing deficiencies and future traffic requirements. The project aligns with the broader objectives of enhancing regional connectivity, promoting tourism, and supporting socio-economic development, while ensuring safe, resilient, and sustainable highway development in the challenging hilly terrain of Uttarakhand.
