BY Mohammad Tarique Saleem
The Agra-Lucknow Expressway, a remarkable milestone in Uttar Pradesh’s infrastructure development, remains a vital link connecting key cities. Built during the tenure of Akhilesh Yadav, the expressway has set a benchmark for its robust construction and seamless design. However, its current state under the Yogi Adityanath government has raised concerns due to inadequate maintenance, particularly regarding safety and illumination.
One of the most pressing issues travelers face is the lack of functional lighting along the expressway. The unlit poles create hazardous conditions, especially during night travel. This oversight compromises visibility, making it difficult for drivers to navigate safely. Poor lighting is not merely an inconvenience; it is a potential cause of accidents, as drivers struggle to spot obstacles or stranded vehicles. This neglect stands in stark contrast to the original vision for the expressway as a safe and efficient corridor.
Furthermore, the expressway has witnessed an increase in accidents, particularly during adverse weather conditions. Dense fog often blankets the road in winter, reducing visibility and resulting in pile-ups and collisions. In December 2023, a major accident involving multiple vehicles highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures. Such incidents underscore the necessity for proactive interventions, such as installing fog-warning systems, reflective road markers, and enhanced patrolling during high-risk conditions.
Comparisons with other projects, like the Purvanchal Expressway, further illuminate the differences in quality and maintenance. While the Agra-Lucknow Expressway continues to stand as a testament to meticulous planning and execution, the newer Purvanchal Expressway has faced scrutiny over construction quality shortly after its inauguration. This disparity raises questions about the current administration’s approach to infrastructure management.
It is essential to recognize the transformative impact of projects like the Agra-Lucknow Expressway on Uttar Pradesh’s economy and connectivity. By reducing travel time and boosting trade, such initiatives have significantly contributed to the state’s progress. However, the lack of maintenance threatens to undermine these benefits. Infrastructure, no matter how advanced, requires consistent upkeep to fulfill its potential and ensure public safety.
The ongoing issues with the expressway are a reminder of the need for accountability in governance. Roads are not just pathways for vehicles; they are lifelines for millions of people who depend on them daily. A visionary project like this deserves a sustained commitment to its upkeep, reflecting the aspirations of a state striving for development.
The Agra-Lucknow Expressway’s legacy is a blend of innovation and challenges. While it remains a symbol of Uttar Pradesh’s modernization, its current neglect reveals the gaps in policy execution. Addressing these shortcomings is not just a matter of road safety; it is a step toward restoring public confidence in the government’s ability to sustain transformative projects. As a vital artery of progress, the expressway must be preserved and enhanced, ensuring it continues to serve as a model for infrastructure excellence.
