PM Modi flags-off Western Peripheral Expressway; hits out at Congress

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway, also known as Western Peripheral Expressway in Gurgaon.

After inaugurating the expressway, PM Modi said that it is a significant day for Haryana and it will bring about a transport revolution in the state. Taking a dig at the earlier UPA government, the Prime Minister said that the expressway should have been ready a decade ago, during the Commonwealth Games, but due to corruption, it was delayed.

Also, on the occasion, PM Modi accused the UPA of “wasting people’s money as the cost of construction escalated due to the delay.” Now 27 km highway is being constructed every day. Bharatmala project of 35,000 km is underway,” he added.

PM Modi further asserted that this western peripheral expressway will contribute to reducing pollution. “In a way, this expressway will help the economy, environment, ease of travelling and ease of living,” he added.

“We constructed more highways in four years than what was constructed in 60 years. We are constructing tracks. We are improving railway connectivity. Train without engine also ready,” the Prime Minister noted.

“Loans up to Rs 1 crore will be sanctioned in 59 minutes for small and medium businessmen. Startup India and Standup India for entrepreneurs. Mudra Yojana beneficial for entrepreneurs. Most applicants are women,” he added.

The Delhi Western Peripheral Expressway project was proposed back in 2003 with an initial total cost of Rs 1,915 crore. The Western Peripheral Expressway was originally expected to complete in 2009. However, it has taken 15 years to complete this project.

With a design speed of 120 kmph for light vehicles and 100 kmph for heavy ones, the Western Peripheral Expressway is finally opened today. It is to be noted that the KMP expressway links to NH-1 (Delhi to Panipat), NH-8 (Jaipur-Gurgaon-Delhi Road), NH 10 (Hisar Rohtak-Delhi Road).

Importantly, the first ring road was completed and opened for traffic in 1956. While the second one was fully operated in 1970. The third ring road called the Eastern Peripheral Expressway also known as EPE was inaugurated earlier this year in May.

Also Read: Haryana: PM Modi set to inaugurate Western Peripheral Expressway