Now Reading: Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway Repairs Begin After Early Road Sinking
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Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway Repairs Begin After Early Road Sinking
The Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway, opened on 13 July at a reported cost of about Rs 4,200 crore, developed sinking and surface slippage within weeks. Distress was first reported on 26 July near kilometre…
The Story in Brief
The Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway, opened on 13 July at a reported cost of about Rs 4,200 crore, developed sinking and surface slippage within weeks. Distress was first reported on 26 July near kilometre 64. Authorities excavated and rebuilt a roughly 300-metre stretch. Repairs are continuing at several sites, with some traffic moved to one carriageway. Drivers near Unnao reported U-turns, wrong-side diversions and FASTag deductions before warnings.
The National Highways Authority of India has suspended toll collection and issued show-cause notices to concessionaire PNC Infratech. It has also begun penalty and debarment proceedings and removed officials responsible for supervision. NHAI suspects rainwater entered the subsoil. Material is being tested, while an IIT Kharagpur team investigates. NHAI says affected areas cover less than one kilometre across five sites and rectification may cost about Rs 3 crore.
The Indian Opinion
The early damage and traffic diversions raise valid safety and construction-quality concerns. However, claims suggesting a complete or systemic expressway failure would be premature while testing and the IIT Kharagpur investigation continue. Motorists’ complaints about unclear diversions and toll deductions deserve attention. NHAI’s action indicates accountability is being pursued, but the repairs should be assessed again after the monsoon before firm conclusions are drawn.
Source: www.indiatoday.in
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
