Analyse the development of the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway in terms of its impact – negative and/or positive – on economic growth, the environment and the goal of sustainable development.
Read the information given below regarding Delhi-Dehradun Expressway and answer the question that follows. The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway is all set to open to the public by the end of 2023. It would reduce the travel time between the two cities from 6 to 2 hours. The 210 km long expressway will start from North East Delhi and pass through Baghpat, Shamli, Muzaffarnagar, Saharanpur and Dehradun. The last 20km stretch will pass through the eco-sensitive zone of Raja Ji National Park where Asia’s longest elevated wildlife corridor of six lanes and 12 km will be constructed that includes the 340 m DatKaali tunnel. The 340-meter-long tunnel near DatKaali temple, Dehradun will help reduce the impact on wildlife and multiple animal passes have been provided in the Ganeshpur-Dehradun section for avoiding animal-vehicle collisions.
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Positive Impacts:
1. Economic Growth: Reduced travel time fosters trade, tourism, and economic activities between Delhi and Dehradun, boosting regional development.
2. Employment Opportunities: Construction and operation create job opportunities, benefiting local communities and stimulating economic growth.
3. Efficiency and Connectivity: Enhanced transportation infrastructure improves connectivity, facilitating smoother movement of goods and people, thus bolstering trade and commerce.
4. Infrastructure Development: Modern roadways attract further investments, spurring infrastructural growth and development in the region.
Negative Impacts:
1. Environmental Concerns: Passage through eco-sensitive zones may disrupt local ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
2. Pollution and Wildlife Disruption: Increased traffic might lead to elevated pollution levels and disturbance to wildlife, especially in Raja Ji National Park.
3. Ecosystem Fragmentation: Habitat fragmentation could occur, impacting biodiversity and hindering wildlife movement.
Sustainable Development Goals:
1. Balancing Growth and Conservation: The project reflects the challenge of balancing economic development with environmental conservation for sustainable progress.
2. Mitigating Environmental Impact: Efforts like wildlife corridors and tunnels indicate steps to minimize ecological disruptions.
3. Social and Environmental Equity: Ensuring equitable benefits for local communities and preserving ecological balance align with sustainable development principles.