Zoom from Lucknow to Kanpur in 40 Minutes: Expressway Set to Open in July

LUCKNOW Uttar Pradesh is all set to mark a new chapter in high-speed road connectivity with the nearing completion of the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway. The six-lane, access-controlled corridor—spanning 63 kilometers—is designed to dramatically reduce the travel time between the two major cities from the current 1.5 to 3 hours to just 35–40 minutes.

Developed at a cost of ₹4,700 crore, the expressway is now more than 80% complete and is expected to be operational by July 2025, possibly ahead of schedule. Built under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) model, the expressway is one of the most awaited infrastructure projects in the region and is set to become a key facilitator of trade, commerce, and travel in central Uttar Pradesh.

Route and Connectivity

The Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway starts from the outskirts of Lucknow and traverses through Bani, Kantha, and Amarsas, before culminating near Azad Marg in Kanpur. The expressway will provide seamless access with minimal intersections, thanks to its controlled-entry and exit system that limits unauthorized access and enhances safety and speed.

The expressway will feature two elevated stretches between Amausi and Bani, improving connectivity in high-density zones. Additionally, it incorporates three major bridges, 28 minor bridges, 38 underpasses, and six flyovers to facilitate uninterrupted flow of traffic.

Travel Made Faster and Safer

With a speed limit of 120 km per hour, the expressway promises to transform intercity commuting in the region. What earlier took around 3 to 4 hours due to congestion on the existing NH-27 route will now be reduced to under 40 minutes, offering relief to thousands of daily commuters, including office-goers, students, and business travelers.

The expressway is expected to carry over 60,000 vehicles daily once operational, easing the burden on the existing Lucknow-Kanpur highway and reducing wear and tear on the older road infrastructure.

Timeline of Development

- March 2019: Foundation stone laid

- January 5, 2022: Project re-launched with new deadlines

- December 2020: Notified as National Expressway 6 (NE-6) in the Gazette of India

- February 2025: Construction reaches 80% completion mark

- July 2025: Targeted month for full opening to public

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which is overseeing the project, had earlier set a deadline for completion in mid-2025. However, officials now indicate that the project may open sooner, thanks to accelerated construction progress.

Engineering Marvel with Future Scalability

The expressway has been initially designed with six lanes but provisions have been made to expand it to eight lanes in the future. This future-readiness ensures the infrastructure can accommodate growing traffic over the next two decades.

The expressway's structural features—including elevated corridors and high-speed underpasses—have been developed keeping in mind high vehicular loads and safety standards. Lighting, signage, and emergency response systems are being integrated to offer international-standard facilities.

Economic and Regional Impact

The expressway is more than just a fast corridor—it is expected to serve as a growth engine for Uttar Pradesh. Faster connectivity between Lucknow and Kanpur, two of the most populous cities in the state, will improve access to job markets, boost regional trade, and reduce logistic costs for industries operating along the corridor.

Experts believe the expressway could lead to the emergence of new townships, logistics parks, and service hubs along its route. Areas like Bani and Amarsas, which were earlier rural stretches, may see rapid urbanisation and an increase in land value.

What Commuters Should Know

- Length: 63 kilometers

- Lanes: 6 (expandable to 8)

- Speed Limit: 120 km/h

- Estimated Travel Time: 35–40 minutes

- Total Cost: ₹4,700 crore

- Project Model: EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction)

- Expected Opening: July 2025

Upcoming Facilities

As part of its future development, the expressway may see the inclusion of rest areas, petrol pumps, EV charging stations, and food plazas. A central control room is also expected to monitor traffic and emergencies through CCTV cameras installed along the stretch.

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Once operational, the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway will not only become the fastest road link between the two key cities but also a model of modern road infrastructure in the country. Its opening is expected to align with Uttar Pradesh’s broader goal of transforming itself into a $1-trillion economy, with improved infrastructure acting as a backbone for growth.

With testing and final touches likely to commence in the coming months, the countdown has begun for commuters who are eagerly awaiting this game-changing highway.