Ganga Expressway: The Ganga Expressway, stretching from Meerut to Prayagraj, is approaching its final phase of construction and is expected to open for public use by the end of January. Spanning approximately 594 kilometers, this ambitious infrastructure project is set to become one of the longest expressways in India, significantly improving road connectivity across western and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Authorities have already completed most of the structural and operational work, including toll plazas, toll booths, signage, and safety systems, marking a major milestone in the project’s timeline.

Progress of the First Construction Package

The first construction package of the Ganga Expressway, covering around 130 kilometers from Meerut to Badaun, is now almost complete. Officials confirmed that the only major pending task was the approach road to the railway overbridge at Simbhavali. This section had caused minor delays earlier, but construction is now in its final stages. The tarmac road work on this approach is expected to be completed within a few days, ensuring uninterrupted vehicle movement once the expressway opens.

Within the Meerut district, the expressway covers a stretch of nearly 15 kilometers. This section has already been equipped with essential road infrastructure, making it ready for traffic operations as soon as formal clearance is granted.

Road Safety and Night-Time Visibility Measures

To enhance safety and driving comfort, authorities have installed multiple modern road safety features along the expressway. Welcome boards and direction signboards have been placed at strategic locations to guide motorists. Speed monitoring cameras have also been installed to ensure compliance with traffic regulations and reduce the risk of accidents.

Street lighting has been installed along key stretches of the expressway, providing adequate illumination during night-time travel. In addition, reflective white lane markings have been laid across the entire route up to Badaun. These markings significantly improve lane visibility after dark, contributing to safer and smoother driving conditions.

Toll Plaza Infrastructure and Technology

A fully equipped toll plaza has been constructed within the limits of Kharkhari village, located just after the expressway entrance from Bijauli village. The toll plaza features eight toll booths designed to manage traffic efficiently on the six-lane expressway. These booths are built to handle high vehicle volumes while minimizing congestion.

Recently, various electronic systems and machinery were installed in all toll booths. These include cameras for automatic vehicle number plate recognition, signal lights, and digital display screens. The toll plaza control room is already operational, supported by surveillance cameras and stable internet connectivity to ensure seamless toll collection and monitoring.

Testing and Operational Readiness

Officials have confirmed that the toll booths will undergo testing within the next couple of days. This testing phase is crucial to ensure that all systems function smoothly before the expressway becomes operational. Once testing is completed successfully, the toll collection system will be fully ready for public use.

According to project authorities, the approach road at the Simbhavali railway overbridge and its surrounding area will be suitable for vehicle movement by the end of December. With this final component nearing completion, the first package of the Ganga Expressway is effectively ready for commissioning.

Statement from Project Officials

Rakesh Mogha, Executive Engineer at the Project Implementation Unit of UPEIDA, stated that construction work on the remaining tarmac road at the Simbhavali overbridge has already begun and will be completed by the end of December. He also confirmed that the toll booths are fully prepared for equipment installation and will soon be operational for testing purposes.

Impact on Regional Connectivity

Once opened, the Ganga Expressway is expected to transform travel across Uttar Pradesh by reducing travel time, improving logistics efficiency, and boosting regional economic development. The expressway will provide faster access between major cities, support industrial growth, and enhance connectivity for rural areas along its route. With infrastructure and safety systems now in place, the project is set to deliver long-term benefits to commuters and businesses alike.