Shiv Murti-Nelson Mandela tunnel faces green concerns

Objections raised Union environment ministry to take a final call on granting clearance to the project

- Jasjeev Gandhiok

NEW DELHI: The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has said that residents of south Delhi have raised concerns that a proposed tunnel between Shiv Murti interchange on NH-48 and Nelson Mandela Marg in Vasant Kunj could have an adverse impact on the forest and environment, and possible damage to houses in the area.

DPCC shared the concerns with the Union environment ministry in a report based on two public hearings conducted in September that the pollution body uploaded on its website this week. The ministry will now take a final call on granting an environmental clearance to the project, the construction for which is planned to commence in July 2025.

The project, set to be constructed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), involves the creation of a 4.9km underground tunnel and the felling of around 417 trees.