Bharuch: While the high-speed corridor of the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway, like any other, is designed for seamless travel, a specific technical challenge on the Ankleshwar–Kim section has led to a unique “speed-breaking” situation.

The primary reason for the speed breakers and the implementation of a diversion in this package is a high-tension transmission tower that currently stands directly in the intended path of the expressway. As the tower occupies the alignment of the main carriageway, highway authorities have been compelled to create a mandatory diversion by constructing a temporary three-lane road that allows vehicles to bypass the high-tension structure. Notably, the expressway is built as a four-lane carriageway with paved shoulders on both sides (4+4=8-lane road).

Ordinarily, expressways with speed limits exceeding 100 kmph do not feature diversions. However, this temporary arrangement could pose safety risks if adequate precautions are not taken. To manage the transition from high-speed travel to the diversion, authorities have implemented several safety measures, including the construction of a speed breaker just ahead of the diversion.

Measures taken by NHAI for the diversion

Large speed breaker: A prominent speed breaker has been installed to force vehicles to slow down while approaching and passing through the diversion near the high-tension tower.

Barricade drums: Barricade drums have been systematically placed to guide vehicles safely through the detour.

Stop lights and markings: Stop lights have been installed to ensure visibility and regulate movement at the bottleneck, while specific road markings have been incorporated into the diversion route.

Rumble strips: Three sets of rumble strips have been laid ahead of the speed breaker and diversion to warn drivers in advance.

Speed restriction: The speed limit at the diversion has been clearly displayed and restricted to a maximum of 30 kmph, as indicated on roadside hoardings.

When will this section open for traffic?

Despite this bottleneck, the expressway package is ready for operationalisation. Pavement Quality Concrete (PQC) laying has been completed, and the installation of dividers and metal barriers is nearing completion. In addition, the railway overbridge near Kosamba has been fully constructed. Final finishing works along the corridor are currently underway, with over 100 workers deployed to prepare the road for public use.

With road cleaning and marking in their final stages, the Ankleshwar–Kim section, which was earlier slated to open on December 31, 2025, is now likely to be opened in the coming weeks, most probably before the Uttarayan festival on January 14.

Once this section becomes operational, the Vadodara–Surat stretch of the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway will be fully open for commuters travelling between two major cities of Gujarat, and further towards Ahmedabad from Vadodara or Mumbai from Surat. However, motorists are advised to remain alert for diversion signage near the high-tension tower until the utility relocation issue is fully resolved. DeshGujarat