Delhi: Delhi is launching one of its largest non-motorized transportation initiatives with a 53-kilometer continuous cycling and walking corridor along both banks of the Yamuna River, extending from Wazirabad Barrage to NH-24 and Kalindi Kunj Biodiversity Park.
The Delhi Development Authority will implement the project across three phases, with Phase I scheduled to commence in early 2026 and complete within 12 months. Officials expect the entire corridor to be operational within three years, with tenders issued and most regulatory approvals secured.
Project Specifications and Infrastructure
The dual-bank pathway comprises 23 kilometers on the western bank and 30 kilometers on the eastern bank. The corridor will feature well-lit, clearly marked cycling paths designed with safety as a priority.
Environmental protections are built into the plan, prohibiting construction in sensitive floodplain areas and implementing strict regulations to preserve existing vegetation. The track will connect established riverfront parks, biodiversity zones, and green spaces developed over the past two years.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta characterized the initiative as a “historic step” toward cleaner air and healthier lifestyles during a recent project review.
Implementation Timeline
Phase I will cover the Old Yamuna Rail Bridge to NH-24 section, beginning early 2026 with a 12-month completion target. Phase II extends from NH-24 to Kalindi Kunj Biodiversity Park, while Phase III connects Wazirabad Barrage to the Old Yamuna Rail Bridge, all within the three-year overall timeline.
Expected Benefits for Urban Development
Officials anticipate the corridor will reduce vehicular dependence by providing safe commuting alternatives for pedestrians and cyclists. Projected outcomes include decreased traffic congestion on major routes including NH-24, Old Yamuna Bridge, and Kalindi Kunj, alongside improved air quality through reduced vehicle emissions.
The infrastructure is designed to accommodate all age groups for exercise and recreation, while potentially boosting eco-tourism through enhanced access to biodiversity parks and restored green areas.
Integration with Broader Environmental Goals
The cycling corridor forms part of Delhi’s comprehensive plan to restore its relationship with the Yamuna River. The project complements ongoing river cleanup initiatives, floodplain biodiversity restoration efforts, and public space development between Wazirabad and Okhla.
Upon completion, the continuous pathway will offer residents an uninterrupted traffic-free route along the river, potentially establishing new standards for green mobility infrastructure in Indian urban centers.
