Just weeks after its inauguration, parts of the Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway are undergoing repair due to repeated instances of sinking and surface slippage. The expressway, which was opened on July 13, 2026, was built at a cost of approximately Rs 4,200 crore to enhance connectivity between the two cities. However, just 13 days later, on the night of July 26, issues such as surface sinking were reported near kilometre 64.

Ground assessments indicate that several locations have been affected, leading the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to restrict traffic to a single lane in affected areas. In particular, heavy machinery has been deployed to excavate and reconstruct portions of the road that have deteriorated significantly.

In response to these issues, NHAI has halted toll collection across the entire expressway until repairs are fully completed. The authority has also initiated accountability measures against PNC Infratech, the project’s concessionaire, as well as officials responsible for project oversight.

Repair Work Underway at Multiple Locations

At the most impacted location near kilometre 64, excavators are cutting through the surface while compaction machines are working on newly laid material. Initial issues were detected in a 120-metre section, but further inspections revealed that water infiltration had created concerns in a larger area, leading to the excavation of about 300 metres of the road.

Subsequent rainfall has also contributed to minor slippages at multiple other spots along the expressway. Visible damage shows parts of the pavement material crumbling and deteriorating, prompting urgent repairs. Workers are currently removing damaged layers and preparing to lay fresh material to restore the surface.

Despite the ongoing disruptions, NHAI maintains that the considerable length of the expressway is functioning normally, asserting that issues are limited to a few specific areas. The overall operational status has been compromised, however, as the repairs persist.

Traffic Challenges and Commuter Complaints

The ongoing repair works have significantly complicated traffic patterns on the expressway. With one carriageway closed in affected zones, vehicles travelling in opposite directions are being diverted onto the same lane, causing congestion. Additional issues have emerged at other locations, where barricades prevent free movement and hinder traffic flow during repair operations.

Motorists are expressing concerns about the inadequate communication regarding diversions. In some instances, drivers have reported receiving toll charges before being informed of the necessity to take U-turns or travel against normal traffic. This lack of notification before toll collection has led to frustration among commuters.

One driver noted that the current conditions prompt worries over safety and potential traffic penalties for inadvertently driving on the wrong side of the road. With the expressway intended for speeds of up to 120 km/h, the ongoing repairs and diversions have prompted many drivers to reconsider their use of this route in favour of older alternatives.

NHAI Conducts Investigation and Enforces Accountability

NHAI’s preliminary assessments attribute the issues to water ingress, with rainwater penetrating the road surface and affecting the soil beneath. A team from IIT Kharagpur has been appointed to evaluate the concerns and provide recommendations for corrective measures. Additionally, NHAI plans to conduct a comprehensive inventory of the expressway using advanced technologies.

The authority has also taken action against certain officials responsible for managing the project, including suspensions and debarment notices. In terms of accountability, PNC Infratech is being considered as a “non-performer,” with discussions about penalties and further actions in progress.

With ongoing repair work, NHAI has suspended toll collection until the issues are resolved. The lost revenue will be recovered from PNC Infratech, emphasizing the responsibility of the concessionaire in maintaining the infrastructure as per the contract standards.

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