The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has approved the proposal to extend the Ganga Expressway up to Haridwar. The proposed greenfield expressway will be constructed as a six-lane corridor, with provision for future expansion to eight lanes.
The extension is estimated to cost ₹10,761 crore, with the expenditure to be borne by the state government. No financial participation from the Central Government is proposed or expected for the project. Following the Cabinet approval, further steps, including preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR), will be undertaken.
The extension is expected to improve connectivity between Bijnor and Haridwar. At present, National Highway 34 (Meerut-Bijnor-Haridwar) is a key road link between the two areas. The Ganga Expressway extension will provide an additional controlled-access route and improve connectivity between Bijnor and Lucknow through the existing Ganga Expressway network.
Also Read: Madhya Pradesh Approves ₹10,630 Crore Development Projects
The project will also establish a controlled-access expressway connection between Prayagraj and Haridwar, two major cities associated with the Kumbh. Improved road connectivity between the two cities is expected to facilitate the movement of pilgrims and tourists and support religious and spiritual tourism.
The improved connectivity could also support trade, investment and industrial activity in Bijnor and other areas along the corridor. Construction of the project and increased economic activity are expected to generate direct and indirect employment opportunities in the region.