Authorities have intensified efforts to address rising safety concerns along the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway, with the National Highways Authority of India and the Nuh district administration planning a joint operation to remove illegal roadside eateries operating along the high-speed corridor.
The move comes after multiple incidents linked to vehicles halting along the expressway to access unauthorised dhabas, creating dangerous conditions for fast-moving traffic. Officials believe that removing these encroachments will significantly reduce the risk of accidents, especially on stretches where vehicles travel at high speeds.
Under the coordinated plan, NHAI will deploy bulldozers and demolition machinery to clear illegal structures, while the district administration will provide police support to ensure the drive is carried out smoothly and without resistance. Authorities are also focusing on preventing the re-emergence of such establishments after demolition.
To ensure strict monitoring, the local Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Nuh will conduct inspections along the expressway at least four times a month. In addition, NHAI teams will carry out regular patrols to identify any fresh encroachments. If new dhaba construction is detected, immediate action will be initiated in coordination with district officials.
Officials estimate that more than 40 illegal dhabas are currently operating along the corridor. Many of these are reportedly set up overnight using temporary structures, often encroaching on highway land. Some establishments have also been accused of drawing electricity through unauthorised connections.
To address this issue, electricity department officials have been asked to monitor and act against illegal power usage. Authorities believe cutting off such supply will make it difficult for these dhabas to function, strengthening enforcement efforts.
The expressway, one of India’s largest infrastructure projects, connects the national capital with Mumbai and begins near Alipur village close to Sohna. Designed for high-speed travel, even brief stoppages along the route can create hazardous situations, particularly during winter months when fog reduces visibility.
Officials have stressed that the demolition drive is part of a broader strategy to improve road safety and ensure uninterrupted traffic flow on the expressway. With stricter monitoring and coordinated enforcement, authorities aim to prevent illegal encroachments and make the highway safer for commuters.