New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated two major National Highway projects worth a combined cost of nearly Rs.11,000 crore at Rohini, Delhi today. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister remarked on the significance of the location, stating that the name of the expressway is “Dwarka,” and the programme is being held at “Rohini.” He highlighted the festive spirit of Janmashtami and noted the coincidence that he himself hails from the land of Dwarkadhish. The Prime Minister observed that the entire atmosphere has become deeply infused with the essence of Lord Krishna.
Highlighting that the month of August is imbued with the colours of freedom and revolution, Shri Modi remarked that amid the celebrations of Azadi Ka Mahotsav, the national capital Delhi is today witnessing a development revolution. He informed that earlier in the day, Delhi received enhanced connectivity through the Dwarka Expressway and Urban Extension Road which will improve convenience for the people of Delhi, Gurugram, and the entire NCR region. He added that commuting to offices and factories will become easier, saving time for everyone. The Prime Minister emphasized that traders, entrepreneurs, and farmers will greatly benefit from this connectivity. He extended his congratulations to all residents of Delhi-NCR for these modern road infrastructure developments.
Recalling his address from the ramparts of the Red Fort on 15th August 2025, where he spoke in detail about the nation’s economy, self-reliance, and self-confidence, the Prime Minister said, “today’s India is defined by its aspirations, dreams, and resolutions—elements that the entire world is now experiencing”. He stated that when the world looks at India and evaluates its progress, its first glance falls upon the national capital, Delhi. Shri Modi emphasized the need to develop Delhi as a model of growth, where everyone can truly feel that this is the capital of a developing and confident India.
Stating that over the past 11 years, the government has consistently worked at various levels to achieve this progress, the Prime Minister highlighted that in terms of connectivity, Delhi-NCR has witnessed unprecedented improvement over the last decade, noting the presence of modern and wide expressways in the region. “Delhi-NCR is now among the most connected areas in the world in terms of metro network”, said Shri Modi. He further added that the region is equipped with advanced systems like the Namo Bharat rapid rail. He emphasized that in the past 11 years, commuting in Delhi-NCR has become significantly easier compared to earlier times.
Affirming that the commitment to transform Delhi into a world-class city is ongoing, Shri Modi stated that today, everyone has witnessed this progress firsthand. Referring to the Dwarka Expressway and the Urban Extension Road, the Prime Minister remarked that both roads have been constructed to excellent standards. He noted that following the Peripheral Expressway, the Urban Extension Road will now provide significant support to Delhi’s infrastructure and connectivity.
Underlining a key feature of the Urban Extension Road, stating that it is also helping to free Delhi from its garbage mounds, the Prime Minister informed that millions of tonnes of waste material have been used in the construction of the Urban Extension Road. He remarked that by reducing the garbage mounds, the waste material has been repurposed for road construction. Pointing out the nearby Bhalswa landfill site and acknowledging the severe problems faced by families living in its vicinity, Shri Modi emphasized that the government is actively working to free Delhi residents from such challenges.
Prime Minister expressed satisfaction that under the leadership of Smt. Rekha Gupta, the Delhi government is consistently engaged in cleaning the Yamuna River. He shared that 16 lakh metric tonnes of silt have already been removed from the Yamuna. Shri Modi further noted that within a short span of time, 650 DEVI (Delhi Electric Vehicle Interconnector) electric buses have been launched in Delhi. He added that the fleet of electric buses in the city is soon expected to cross 2,000, emphasising that this initiative strengthens the mantra of “Green Delhi–Clean Delhi.”
Noting that after many years, their party has formed the government in the national capital, Delhi, the Prime Minister criticised the previous dispensations for the poor pace of development in Delhi. He acknowledged that although it is an arduous task to uplift Delhi from the mess of previous governments, the current Government will strive and restore the pride and development of Delhi. Shri Modi highlighted the unique alignment wherein our governments are currently in place in Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. He remarked that this reflects the immense blessings the entire region has bestowed upon their party and its leadership. Shri Modi emphasized that, recognizing this responsibility, the government is fully committed to the development of Delhi-NCR. He pointed out that certain political parties are still unable to accept the public’s mandate. He stated that these parties have distanced themselves from both public trust and ground realities. Recalling how, a few months ago, conspiracies were hatched to pit the people of Delhi and Haryana against each other, the Prime Minister mentioned that false claims were made alleging that Haryana residents were poisoning Delhi’s water supply. He asserted that Delhi and the entire NCR have now been freed from such negative politics, reaffirming the government’s resolve to transform the NCR and expressed confidence that this vision will be successfully realized.
“Good governance is the hallmark of our governments and in our administrations, the people are paramount”, said Shri Modi. He remarked that the consistent effort of our party is to make citizens’ lives easier. He noted that this commitment is reflected in the party’s policies and decisions. Referring to past governments in Haryana, the Prime Minister observed that there was a time when even a single appointment was difficult without influence or recommendation. He highlighted that under their government in Haryana, lakhs of youth have received government jobs through a fully transparent process. He commended Shri Nayab Singh Saini for continuing this initiative with dedication.
Prime Minister stated that in Delhi, those who once lived in slums without permanent housing are now receiving pucca homes. He highlighted that areas previously lacking basic amenities such as electricity, water, and gas connections are now being equipped with these essential services. Speaking about the national progress, Shri Modi remarked that in the past 11 years, a record number of roads have been constructed across the country. He noted the ongoing transformation of railway stations and expressed pride in modern trains like Vande Bharat, adding that airports are now being developed in smaller cities. Referring to the NCR region, the Prime Minister pointed out the significant increase in the number of airports. He mentioned that flights are now operating from Hindon Airport to several cities, further informing that the Noida airport is also nearing completion.
Shri Modi stated that such progress has only been possible because the country has changed its outdated approaches over the past decade. He emphasized that the level of infrastructure the nation required, and the pace at which it needed to be built, was not achieved in the past. Referring to the Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways, the Prime Minister noted that Delhi-NCR had felt the need for these roads for several decades. He mentioned that during the previous government, files related to these projects began moving, but actual work commenced only when the people gave their party the opportunity to serve. He highlighted that the roads became a reality when our governments were formed at both the Centre and in Haryana. The Prime Minister proudly stated that today, these expressways are serving the nation with distinction.
Connectivity across NCR will take a big leap forward with the inauguration of the Delhi section of Dwarka Expressway and UER-II. https://t.co/YWujS91BOY
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 17, 2025
Highlighting that the indifference towards development projects was not limited to Delhi-NCR, but was prevalent across the entire country, Shri Modi pointed out that earlier, the budget allocated for infrastructure was very low, and even the sanctioned projects would take years to complete. He underlined that in the past 11 years, the infrastructure budget has been increased more than sixfold. The Prime Minister emphasized that the current focus is on the rapid completion of projects, which is why initiatives like the Dwarka Expressway are now being realized. He remarked that the substantial investment in these projects is not only creating facilities but also generating large-scale employment. Explaining that massive construction activities provide work to lakhs of individuals—from labourers to engineers, Shri Modi added that the use of construction materials boosts employment in associated factories and shops. He also noted that the transport and logistics sectors are witnessing increased job opportunities due to these developments.
Prime Minister Shri Modi stated that previously those who governed for long periods viewed ruling over the people as their primary objective. He emphasized that their party’s effort is to eliminate both pressure and interference of the government from the lives of citizens. He cited an example to illustrate past conditions, referring to the sanitation workers in Delhi who shoulder a major responsibility in maintaining cleanliness, were treated as if they were enslaved. Shri Modi revealed a shocking truth, stating that under the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, there was a provision that if a sanitation worker failed to report to duty without prior notice, they could be imprisoned for one month. The Prime Minister questioned the mindset behind such laws, asking how sanitation workers could be subjected to jail for a minor lapse. He criticized those who now speak of social justice, pointing out that they had maintained such unjust laws in the country. Shri Modi declared that it is their government that is actively identifying and abolishing such regressive laws. He informed that the government has already repealed hundreds of such laws, and the campaign continues.
“For us, reform means the expansion of good governance”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, emphasising that continuous focus is being placed on reforms. He announced that in the coming days, several major reforms will be introduced to make both life and business easier. “As part of this effort, a next-generation reform in GST is being planned. This Diwali, citizens will receive a double bonus through the GST reform”, stated Shri Modi. Informing that the complete framework has been shared with all states, Shri Modi expressed hope that all states will cooperate with this initiative of the Government of India. He urged for the swift completion of the process so that this Diwali can be made even more special. Adding that the government aims to simplify GST further and revise tax rates, the Prime Minister highlighted that the benefits of this reform will reach every household, especially the poor and middle class. He added that entrepreneurs of all scales, as well as traders and businesspersons, will gain from these changes.
Underscoring that one of India’s greatest strengths is its ancient culture and heritage, Shri Modi emphasized that this cultural legacy embodies a profound philosophy of life. He remarked that within this philosophy, we encounter both the “Chakradhari Mohan” and the “Charkhadhari Mohan.” He noted that from time to time, the nation experiences the essence of both these figures. Explaining that “Chakradhari Mohan” refers to Lord Shri Krishna, who demonstrated the power of the Sudarshan Chakra, the Prime Minister added that “Charkhadhari Mohan” refers to Mahatma Gandhi, who through the spinning wheel, awakened the nation to the strength of Swadeshi.
“To empower India, we must draw inspiration from Chakradhari Mohan, to make India self-reliant, we must follow the path of Charkhadhari Mohan”, exclaimed the Prime Minister urging that “Vocal for Local” should become a life mantra for every citizen. He remarked that this mission is not difficult for the nation, as India has always delivered whenever it has taken a resolution. Citing the example of Khadi, which was once on the verge of extinction, Shri Modi recalled his appeal to the nation, which led to a collective resolve and visible results. He informed that in the past decade, Khadi sales have increased nearly sevenfold.He noted that the people of India embraced Khadi with the spirit of “Vocal for Local.” The Prime Minister further highlighted the trust shown by citizens in Made in India mobile phones. “Eleven years ago, India imported most of its mobile phones. Today, the majority of Indians use Made in India phones. India now manufactures and exports 30 to 35 crore mobile phones annually”, stated the PM.
Noting that India’s Made in India UPI has today become the world’s largest real-time digital payment platform, the Prime Minister highlighted that Indian-made rail coaches and locomotives are now witnessing growing demand in other countries.
Prime Minister remarked that when it comes to road infrastructure and overall infrastructure, India has developed the Gati Shakti platform. He highlighted that the platform contains 1,600 layers of data. He stated that for any project, the platform provides instant access to all relevant conditions and regulatory requirements—whether it involves wildlife, forest areas, rivers, or drains, noting that all such information is available within minutes, enabling projects to progress rapidly. Shri Modi informed that a dedicated university for Gati Shakti has now been established. He emphasized that Gati Shakti has become a powerful and transformative pathway for the nation’s progress.
Recalling that a decade ago, even toys were being imported into India, Shri Modi said when Indians resolved to embrace “Vocal for Local,” not only did domestic toy production increase significantly, but India also began exporting toys to over 100 countries worldwide.
Urging all citizens to place their trust in products made in India, the Prime Minister appealed to the people to choose Indian-made goods, stating, “If you are Indian, buy what is made in India.” Referring to the ongoing festive season, Shri Modi encouraged everyone to share the joy of local products with their loved ones. He called upon citizens to make a conscious decision to gift only those items that are made in India and crafted by Indians.
Addressing shopkeepers across the country, acknowledging that some may have sold foreign-made goods in pursuit of slightly higher profits, the Prime Minister clarified that they have done nothing wrong, but urged them to now embrace the mantra of “Vocal for Local.” He emphasized that this single step will benefit the nation and every item sold will support an Indian labourer or a poor citizen. Emphasising that the money from each sale will remain within India and benefit fellow Indians, Shri Modi said that this will enhance the purchasing power of Indian citizens and strengthen the economy. He appealed to shopkeepers to sell Made in India products with pride.
“Delhi is emerging as a capital that bridges India’s glorious past with its promising future”, stated the Prime Minister highlighting the recent inauguration of the new Central Secretariat—Kartavya Bhavan—and the completion of the new Parliament building. He noted that Kartavya Path now stands before the nation in its renewed form. Shri Modi remarked that modern conference centres like Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi are enhancing Delhi’s stature. He emphasized that these developments are positioning Delhi as a premier destination for business and commerce. The Prime Minister concluded by expressing confidence that with the strength and inspiration of these initiatives, Delhi will rise as one of the finest capitals in the world.
Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt Rekha Gupta, Chief Minister of Haryana, Shri Nayab Singh Saini, Union Ministers of State, Shri Ajay Tamta, Shri Harsh Malhotra were present among others at the event.
Background
The projects — the Delhi section of the Dwarka Expressway and the Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II) — have been developed under the Government’s comprehensive plan to decongest the capital, with the objective of greatly improving connectivity, cutting travel time, and reducing traffic in Delhi and its surrounding areas. These initiatives reflect Prime Minister Modi’s vision of creating world-class infrastructure that enhances ease of living and ensures seamless mobility.
The 10.1 km long Delhi section of Dwarka Expressway has been developed at a cost of around Rs. 5,360 crore. The section will also provide Multi-modal connectivity to Yashobhoomi, DMRC Blue line and Orange line, upcoming Bijwasan railway station and Dwarka cluster Bus Depot. This section comprises:
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Package I: 5.9 km from Shiv Murti intersection to the Road Under Bridge (RUB) at Dwarka Sector-21.
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Package II: 4.2 km from Dwarka Sector-21 RUB to the Delhi-Haryana Border, providing direct connectivity to Urban Extension Road-II.
The 19 km long Haryana section of the Dwarka Expressway was earlier inaugurated by the Prime Minister in March 2024.
Prime Minister also inaugurated the Alipur to Dichaon Kalan stretch of Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II) along with new links to Bahadurgarh and Sonipat, built at a cost of Rs. around 5,580 Crores. It will ease traffic on Delhi’s Inner and Outer Ring Roads and busy points like Mukarba Chowk, Dhaula Kuan, and NH-09. The new spurs will give direct access to Bahadurgarh and Sonipat, improve industrial connectivity, cut city traffic, and speed up goods movement in the NCR.
