Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway to Open by Mid-December

10 Sep 2025 CW Team

The Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway is set to be fully completed by 15 December, according to officials. During a recent review meeting attended by the District Magistrate, the Defence Minister’s advisor requested an update from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which confirmed that only minor work remains. These final tasks are expected to be finished between the first and second week of December, after which preparations for the inauguration will begin.

Once operational, the expressway will reduce travel time between Lucknow and Kanpur to just one hour. Most sections are either complete or nearing completion. However, the low-tension electricity line near Scooter India on the Lucknow border still requires removal, with work scheduled to start on 14 September. Installation of monopoles is already underway, and remaining patchwork will be completed by December. A trial run will be conducted prior to the official opening to ensure smooth operations.

Designed for Future Expansion

Built along NH-27 at an estimated cost of Rs 47 billion, the 63-kilometre expressway stretches from Shaheed Path in Lucknow to the Kanpur Ring Road. Initially constructed as a six-lane road, it has been designed for future expansion to eight lanes. The fully access-controlled expressway will allow vehicles to enter and exit only at designated points, ensuring efficient and safe travel. Vehicles are expected to begin using the expressway by late December or early January.

The project aims to enhance connectivity between Lucknow and Kanpur, two major industrial and administrative hubs of Uttar Pradesh. In addition, NHAI announced measures to reduce traffic congestion and accidents near the BBD cut on Ayodhya Road. Two underpasses are under construction to enable safe crossing for both pedestrians and small vehicles, which is expected to significantly lower traffic jams and improve safety in the area.

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