GMDA Accuses NHAI of Unauthorized Land Encroachment for Highway Project
In a significant development, the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) has formally accused the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) of illegally utilizing its land for constructing approach ramps. These ramps are intended for a unidirectional flyover on the Dwarka Expressway, which connects to the Gurgaon–Pataudi–Rewari highway (NH-352W). GMDA has issued a stern directive, demanding that NHAI cease all related construction activities immediately.
Allegations of Encroachment Beyond Approved Scope
Through a letter dated April 16, GMDA asserted that NHAI's Rewari unit has initiated steps to use additional right of way (RoW) that exceeds the 90 meters of land officially handed over for the Dwarka Expressway project. The unidirectional flyover is being developed to enhance connectivity between NH-352W and Dwarka Expressway. GMDA contends that this additional land falls outside the approved project scope, labeling its use as an encroachment. The authority has termed NHAI's actions as "unauthorised" and in direct violation of previously agreed-upon approvals.
History of Disputes and Alignment Deviations
This latest accusation follows an earlier objection raised by GMDA, where it claimed that NHAI's Dwarka unit had deviated from the approved alignment of the Dwarka Expressway. According to GMDA, the expressway's alignment was extended beyond permissible limits and shifted from the designated 150-meter center line, thereby departing from the sanctioned design. This deviation has reportedly hampered ongoing infrastructure works planned by GMDA. Specifically, around 1 kilometer of planned service roads along Dwarka Expressway, under construction near the Daulatabad rotary, has been adversely impacted by the alignment shift.
GMDA has issued a warning to NHAI, stating that failure to comply with its directives will result in legal action for unauthorized land use and violation of sanctioned plans. A senior GMDA official emphasized, "NHAI did not adhere to the approved 150-meter RoW center line while executing the Dwarka Expressway project. Now, they are using GMDA's RoW for the construction of the approach to the vehicular overpass at Dwarka Expressway. We have asked them to stop the work immediately."
NHAI's Response and Defense
In response, an NHAI official acknowledged receiving the letter but maintained that the authority has not engaged in any unauthorized activity or encroached on GMDA land. The official from PIU Rewari stated, "The work is being carried out strictly within the right of way that was officially handed over to us. Around 90 meters of RoW was provided for Dwarka Expressway to PIU Dwarka from GMDA. For the construction of the VOP (vehicular overpass), the land transfer process was completed formally between PIU Dwarka and PIU Rewari. There has been no deviation from that arrangement on our part. As far as the ongoing work is concerned, construction is progressing and will continue."
Project Details and Strategic Importance
NH-352W is a 43-kilometer corridor being developed to strengthen connectivity between Gurgaon and southern Haryana. This project is expected to alleviate pressure on the Delhi–Gurgaon Expressway and improve access to key industrial hubs such as Manesar, Bilaspur, and Dharuhera. At its junction with Dwarka Expressway, NHAI is constructing a 180-meter, two-lane unidirectional flyover designed to enable seamless movement towards Rewari from Delhi and Gurgaon. This link aims to reduce congestion on the Delhi–Jaipur Expressway and provide an alternative route for both commuters and freight traffic.
According to NHAI, approximately 75% of the work on the highway has been completed, with the authority targeting a July completion date. The unidirectional flyover is expected to be ready by May. Dwarka Expressway, a critical arterial road connecting Delhi and Gurgaon, intersects with NH-352W near Sector 37D. The Gurgaon section of the expressway was opened to traffic in February 2024, while the entire 29.1-kilometer corridor has been fully operational since August 2025.
