UP Government Unveils Major Infrastructure Push with Rs 400 Crore North-South Corridor
In a significant move to bolster road connectivity across the state, the Uttar Pradesh government has allocated Rs 400 crore for the ambitious North-South Corridor project. This initiative aims to improve transportation links across 20 districts that currently rely heavily on link roads to access key destinations.
Project Details and Strategic Shift
The corridor, spanning over 2,300 kilometers, is proposed to be developed in six distinct stretches. The project involves widening, strengthening, and constructing new roads on selected routes, marking a strategic shift in UP's infrastructure approach. This move transitions the focus from high-speed expressways to enhancing deep-tier connectivity, ensuring better access to remote and underserved areas.
Comprehensive Road Infrastructure Allocation
Overall, the government has made a substantial allocation of Rs 34,468 crore for strengthening and renovating roads and flyovers throughout the state. Specifically, flyovers and bridges have been allocated a corpus of Rs 4,808 crore, which is expected to address chronic bottlenecks in high-growth cities. Additionally, Railway Over Bridges (RoBs) have received Rs 1,700 crore, complementing the Union Budget's massive Rs 20,000 crore investment in UP's rail infrastructure. This synergy is designed to facilitate faster movement in high-speed rail corridors.
Maintenance and Specialized Projects
Separately, an allocation of Rs 3,700 crore has been earmarked for the maintenance of state highways, major roads, and district roads. This measure reflects the government's commitment to preserving the existing road network assets. Another Rs 1,500 crore has been allocated for the construction of bypasses, ring roads, and flyovers across road crossings, aimed at bridging the efficiency gap between high-speed expressways and urban and industrial endpoints.
Focus on Industrial and Logistics Development
Furthermore, Rs 1,000 crore has been set aside for widening and strengthening roads dedicated to industrial and logistics parks. This allocation gains significance in light of the state government's goal to transform Uttar Pradesh into a USD 1 trillion economy. Experts note that industrial roads require higher load-bearing capacities compared to standard district roads, highlighting the transition from general connectivity to specialized engineering.
Implications for Economic Growth
The development underscores a broader shift towards infrastructure that supports Uttar Pradesh's aspiration to become a manufacturing powerhouse. By investing in both connectivity and specialized road networks, the government aims to enhance logistics efficiency, reduce transportation costs, and attract industrial investments, thereby driving economic growth across the state.
