Uttar Pradesh is emerging as a major hub for connectivity with its focus on improving transportation infrastructure. The state is witnessing rapid development, from the creation of the new State Capital Region to upgraded routes across the area. Among these developments are six key upcoming expressways that aim to enhance travel and boost economic activities. These include the Purvanchal and Ganga Expressways, which are designed to reduce travel time between major cities and foster economic cooperation across the state.
Ganga Expressway
Set to be the second-largest expressway in the country, the Ganga Expressway is expected to be completed by December 2024, ahead of the Mahakumbh 2025. Spanning 594 km, it will enhance connectivity between Eastern and Western Uttar Pradesh, linking Meerut to Prayagraj. It will feature 14 major bridges, 7 railway overbridges, 32 flyovers, and a 3.5-km airstrip for emergency landings.
Noida-Kanpur Expressway
NHAI is also building an expressway to connect Noida and Kanpur, with a 60-km connector road to Hapur. The expressway will pass through Aligarh, eventually linking with the Eastern Peripheral Expressway near Greater Noida. This project, scheduled for completion by 2026, will include a loop at Jewar Airport to enhance accessibility.
Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is leading the construction of this expressway, aiming to cut travel time between Lucknow and Kanpur to 45-50 minutes. Scheduled for completion by March/April 2025, this six-lane expressway will pass through 42 villages and reduce the current four-hour trip significantly.
Gorakhpur Link Expressway
Nearing completion, this 91.3-km link expressway will connect Gorakhpur directly to the Purvanchal Expressway. With 98% of the work done, it is expected to open within the next 3-4 months, improving travel between Azamgarh and Gorakhpur and fostering economic growth in the region.
Link Expressway Connecting Agra and Purvanchal Expressways
A new link expressway will soon connect the Purvanchal and Agra Expressways, eliminating traffic congestion. Another planned link will connect the Ganga Expressway to the Agra-Lucknow Expressway via Farrukhabad.
Buxar-Bhagalpur Expressway
Announced in the Union Budget 2024-25, this expressway will cut travel time between Buxar and Bhagalpur to just four hours. It will also reduce travel time between Patna and Lucknow to 5-6 hours and between Bhagalpur and Lucknow to 8-9 hours, greatly enhancing connectivity in the region.
