Expressway Update : In a major infrastructure boost for Uttar Pradesh, the state government has greenlit a ₹1,620 crore expressway project that will directly connect two significant cities – Prayagraj and Pratapgarh. The project aims to improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and spur economic growth. With construction timelines already laid out and environmental clearances secured, this expressway is being hailed as a game-changer for intra-state logistics and urban development.
Expressway Overview : A Quick Snapshot
- Project Cost: ₹1,620 Crore
- Length: Approximately 65 km
- Connecting Cities: Prayagraj to Pratapgarh
- Type: 4-Lane Access-Controlled Expressway
- Status: Approved, construction to start by Q3 2025
- Expected Completion: Late 2027
- Executing Agency: Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA)
Route Details : From Origin to Destination
The expressway will start from the outskirts of Prayagraj and connect to Pratapgarh via a direct greenfield route. This will minimize urban congestion and bypass smaller townships, reducing bottlenecks.
Key towns/villages en route:
- Shankargarh (near Prayagraj)
- Handia
- Kunda
- Lalganj
- Bela Pratapgarh
The route is designed to integrate with NH-31 and the upcoming Ganga Expressway for seamless long-distance travel.
Project Timeline & Milestones
| Phase | Milestone | Expected Date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| DPR Finalization | Detailed Project Report approval | Q1 2025 | Completed |
| Land Acquisition | 90% clearance | Q2 2025 | In Progress |
| Construction Begins | Groundbreaking | Q3 2025 | Upcoming |
| First Segment Ready | 30 km stretch completion | Q3 2026 | Planned |
| Full Completion | Total 65 km operational | Q4 2027 | Planned |
| Toll Operations Begin | Electronic toll setup across segments | Q1 2028 | Planned |
Major Benefits of the Prayagraj–Pratapgarh Expressway
Economic Development
- Reduces transit time by 50%, boosting logistics efficiency
- Enables easier access to industrial zones in Prayagraj
- Supports growth of MSMEs in Pratapgarh district
Travel Convenience
- Cuts travel time from 2.5 hours to just 1 hour
- Safer roads with smart surveillance and patrolling units
- Direct route bypasses congested town areas
Employment & Local Boost
- Generates over 15,000 jobs during construction
- Employment in toll and maintenance post-completion
- Enhances land values and commercial opportunities
Cost Distribution and Funding Structure
| Component | Allocation (₹ Cr) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Land Acquisition | 520 | Approx. 32% of total budget |
| Road Construction | 950 | Main infrastructure cost |
| Toll & Surveillance Systems | 70 | Smart tolling, ANPR systems included |
| Environmental & Safety Works | 30 | Noise barriers, green buffers |
| Total | 1,620 | Fully state-funded project |
Environmental & Technological Features
- Use of recycled materials in sub-base layers
- Solar-powered lighting at critical junctions
- Digital signboards with real-time traffic updates
- Water harvesting and drainage control systems
New Expressway to Transform 45 Villages in UP – Route Map, Benefits & Complete Plan Revealed
Impact on Regional Infrastructure
| Area | Pre-Project Travel Time | Post-Project Travel Time | Connectivity Boost (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prayagraj–Kunda | 1 hour 20 min | 30 minutes | 62% |
| Kunda–Pratapgarh | 1 hour | 30 minutes | 50% |
| Total Corridor | 2.5 hours | 1 hour | 60% |
Strategic Significance
- Forms a secondary logistics spine in eastern UP
- Complements Purvanchal Expressway and Ganga Expressway
- Facilitates pilgrimage traffic to Varanasi and Prayagraj during Kumbh
The ₹1,620 crore Prayagraj–Pratapgarh Expressway is more than just a road project—it’s a catalyst for regional transformation. With smart infrastructure, environmental responsibility, and direct economic implications, this expressway is set to redefine how people and goods move across this part of Uttar Pradesh. As the state moves toward becoming India’s logistics hub, such expressways are the backbone of sustainable growth and mobility.
The project timeline and features mentioned are based on the latest official updates and may be subject to change as per government and administrative decisions.
