The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) suspended toll collection on the Kanpur–Lucknow Expressway until repairs to a damaged stretch are completed and initiated disciplinary action against the concessionaire, the project engineer and several officials for alleged lapses in execution and supervision. The authority said the decision followed widespread complaints about damaged portions and patchwork at various locations on the expressway within weeks of its inauguration on 13 July.

The 63 km long expressway has drawn criticism from commuters, who posted videos on social media showing defects, particularly on the Unnao–Lucknow carriageway. Reports indicated that motorists were being charged a one-way fee of Rs 275 for car, jeep or van traffic, while an annual pass had been permitted at the toll plaza.

NHAI stated that tolls will remain suspended until complete rectification and that the authority will seek recovery of the toll loss from the concessionaire. Restoration work began immediately after a reported slippage near kilometre 64 on 26 July and traffic was redirected at the affected location.

The authority has proposed declaring concessionaire PNC Infratech Ltd a non-performer, which would render the company ineligible to bid for future NHAI projects, and has initiated disciplinary proceedings against named contractors and supervisory staff. At present traffic is being allowed to ply smoothly on diverted sections while engineers assess and repair the damaged carriageway.

NHAI said monitoring of restoration work will continue and that no toll will be charged until rectification is complete, without giving a firm timeline for reopening the toll collection. The authority emphasised that recovery mechanisms and contractual remedies are being pursued as part of efforts to ensure accountability and upkeep of national highway assets. Officials will continue inspections and coordinate repairs with the concessionaire until full restoration is certified.