Prayagraj-Mirzapur highway to be expanded to four lanes

Prayagraj: In a major development aimed at improving road infrastructure and easing traffic congestion, the Prayagraj-Mirzapur National Highway is set to be converted into a four-lane highway. The Public Works Department (PWD), under the National Highway section, began preparations for this ambitious expansion, which is expected to significantly enhance the commuting experience between Prayagraj and Mirzapur.

The move follows clear instructions from Union minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari. Taking note of the frequent traffic jams on the existing two-lane highway, the minister directed the National Highways section to take up the project as part of the govt's road development agenda for the new financial year. Responding promptly, officials initiated survey work and groundwork on the proposed route.

The stretch between Prayagraj and Mirzapur covers a distance of about 86 kilometres. Currently, due to the narrow width of the two-lane road, vehicular movement is often disrupted, leading to long traffic jams and delays. With the new four-lane design, smoother travel, reduced congestion, and improved safety are the expected outcomes.

In Prayagraj, officials began the initial survey shortly after the Holi festival, focusing on a 50-kilometre section from Leprosy Mission Square to Manda. Four dedicated teams of experts have been deployed to prepare a detailed project report (DPR), with special emphasis on land acquisition requirements. Simultaneously, the remaining portion from Manda to Mirzapur will be surveyed by the National Highway Section of Mirzapur.

According to Vishal Seth, assistant engineer of the section, the detailed project report will take about three months to complete. Once finalised, it will be submitted to the Ministry for approval and subsequent implementation.

With this project, the long-standing demand of locals and commuters for better road infrastructure is finally on its way to being fulfilled, promising a safer and more efficient travel experience in the near future.