The experience of travelling on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

 The experience of travelling on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway 

(Beyond the Fast Lane: Hidden Costs of a National Expressway)

There is growing concern over the condition and management of several national highway projects, particularly the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway, which was envisioned as a symbol of infrastructure excellence but now increasingly resembles a logistical and economic burden for commuters. Despite its promise, the expressway is marred by inconsistent road quality, frequent repair patches, and malfunctioning or poorly maintained signage. The issues that not only disrupt travel but also leave a negative impression on visiting foreign tourists.

Adding to commuter frustration is the toll tax system, which remains active even on stretches under repair, defying logical policy expectations. This has invited questions about transparency and accountability in toll administration. Furthermore, heavy rental charges levied on roadside eateries and food courts are indirectly borne by passengers through inflated prices, making basic amenities less affordable for common citizens.

The cumulative impact of these shortcomings, ranging from infrastructure lapses to economic pressure, risks eroding public trust. It’s crucial that leadership reassesses the broader consequences of such decisions, not just in terms of service delivery but also in preserving the party’s image and voter confidence. Citizens are seeking resolution, not rhetoric, relief, not rationalization.

When infrastructure policies begin to feel like penalties, it’s time for governance to take a closer look.