Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Hits Haridwar Tourism; 40% Hotels Empty, Dhabas Deserted

The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway is a major infrastructure upgrade, which was inaugurated in April 2026. The stretch has reduced travel time from Delhi to Dehradun to 2.5-3 hours, down from over six hours. But not everyone is happy about this upgrade. The expressway has significantly impacted tourism in Haridwar, with many travel businesses facing losses.

Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Hits Haridwar Tourism

Thanks to the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, the journey from Delhi to Dehradun can now be completed in under three hours. The roads are excellent, and many travellers are happy about this major upgrade. But apparently, the expressway has hit Haridwar’s tourism industry. According to News9Live, travellers now bypass the city and head straight to Dehradun.

This means many hotels are left vacant, as tourists no longer stop here. Many dhabas are deserted too. Reportedly, the travel business has dropped by 60%. Haridwar was considered a busy stopover for many tourists and travellers heading to Uttarakhand. But since the inauguration of the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, its tourism and hospitality industry has seen a sharp decline.

Also Read: What Is Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Wildlife Corridor & How Does It Help Animals?

Hotels & Dhabas Struggle To Stay In The Business

According to News9Live, out of nearly 1,200 hotels in Haridwar, about 40% (480) are now lying empty. There are no advance bookings, and people are not even making enquiries. Many hotel operators are struggling to pay electricity bills and staff salaries. The Haridwar Travel Association has reported a 60% decline in business.

Last year, during the start of the Char Dham Yatra, nearly 600-700 vehicles left Haridwar daily. But this year, the number has dropped to just 250–300. Even taxis and tempos are parked idle at stands. More than 225 travel agents are also finding it difficult to manage staff expenses.

Not just travel businesses, but food businesses have been impacted too. The Haridwar highway has many dhabas, which used to see crowds from Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana. But now they remain empty. Dhaba owners are complaining of deserted eateries and dwindling income, leaving their businesses in crisis.

Also Read: Delhi-Dehradun Expressway All Set For Mussoorie Expansion; Here’s What It Means For Travellers

Yes, the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway has made travel easier between these two destinations. But it has left Haridwar’s tourism industry struggling. What are your thoughts on this situation? Do share them with us.

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