Uttar Pradesh Shines as Expressway Hub: A Remarkable Turnaround from Bimaru State

Uttar Pradesh (UP), once labeled a “Bimaru” state—a term implying economic and developmental lag—has undergone a stunning transformation under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. On June 20, 2025, CM Yogi proudly declared that UP has emerged as the “land of expressways,” marking a significant milestone in the state’s journey toward modernization and economic growth. The inauguration of the 91.35-km Gorakhpur Link Expressway in Azamgarh underscores this shift, reinforcing UP’s position as a leader in infrastructure development in India. This article explores how UP has redefined its identity through its expressway network, the impact of these projects, and what lies ahead for the state.

The Rise of Uttar Pradesh as an Expressway Hub

The term “Bimaru” once cast a shadow over UP, symbolizing its struggles with poverty, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure. However, the state’s trajectory has changed dramatically. During the inauguration of the Gorakhpur Link Expressway, CM Yogi highlighted how UP has transitioned from a state of limitations to one synonymous with progress. “The double engine government of the BJP is working to fulfill the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047. Uttar Pradesh has now made its reputation as a state with expressways,” he said, emphasizing the synergy between tradition (Virasat) and development (Vikas).

The Gorakhpur Link Expressway, a 91.35-km stretch connecting Jaitpur on NH-27 in Gorakhpur to the Purvanchal Expressway in Salarpur, Azamgarh, is a testament to this vision. Built at a cost of ₹7,283.28 crore, this fully access-controlled, four-lane expressway—expandable to six lanes—passes through Gorakhpur, Sant Kabir Nagar, Ambedkar Nagar, and Azamgarh districts. It is expected to reduce travel time between Gorakhpur and Lucknow to just 3.5 hours, making it a game-changer for connectivity and economic activity in eastern UP.

Why the Expressway Hub Matters for UP’s Growth

The development of expressways in UP is not just about building roads; it’s about creating lifelines for economic and social progress. The Gorakhpur Link Expressway is the seventh operational expressway in the state, joining the ranks of the 340-km Purvanchal Expressway, the 300-km Bundelkhand Expressway, and the Agra-Lucknow Expressway, among others. These projects have positioned UP as the state with the longest expressway network in India, a feat achieved under the Yogi government’s tenure.

This expressway hub is designed to boost industrial activity, trade, and employment. The Gorakhpur Link Expressway, for instance, features two toll plazas, three ramp plazas, seven flyovers, 16 vehicular underpasses, 50 light vehicular underpasses, 35 pedestrian underpasses, seven major bridges, 27 minor bridges, and 389 culverts. Such infrastructure ensures seamless connectivity and safety, with a dedicated fleet of five Innovas, five campers, four ambulances, two cranes, and one hydra vehicle patrolling 24/7. This comprehensive approach reflects the state’s commitment to fostering inclusive regional growth.

Moreover, the expressway hub enhances connectivity to major cities like Delhi and Patna, making UP a critical link in India’s transportation network. The Purvanchal Expressway, inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi in 2021, is set to connect to Patna, further easing travel and trade. For residents, this means shorter travel times, more comfortable journeys, and better access to opportunities. For businesses, it translates to faster logistics, reduced costs, and increased investment potential.

Transforming Azamgarh: From Notoriety to Development

Azamgarh, once associated with challenges, is now a symbol of UP’s development story. CM Yogi, during the expressway’s inauguration, recalled a time when “people were afraid to take the name of Azamgarh.” Today, the region is on the path to prosperity, thanks to projects like the Gorakhpur Link Expressway and the Purvanchal Expressway. These initiatives are not just about infrastructure but also about restoring pride and opportunity to areas previously left behind.

The expressway hub is also a nod to UP’s historical significance. CM Yogi noted that better connectivity in the past could have altered history, referencing the 1857 revolt led by Veer Kunwar Singh. “If this Purvanchal Expressway had been there at that time, the people of Azamgarh would have beaten the British,” he remarked, underscoring the transformative power of infrastructure.

Yogi’s Vision: A Blueprint for Viksit Bharat

The expressway hub is a cornerstone of CM Yogi’s broader vision for a developed India by 2047. His government’s focus on infrastructure aligns with the national goal of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). By prioritizing road connectivity, UP is creating a model for other states to follow. The state’s Public Works Department has been tasked with submitting proposals for road infrastructure development by June 30, 2025, ensuring that every district and assembly constituency benefits from at least two to three major schemes.

This integrated approach to connectivity is evident in projects like the planned Lucknow-Nanapara (Bahraich) Expressway, Jhansi-Kushinagar Expressway, and Kanpur-Agra Expressway, which are set to further expand UP’s expressway hub. These initiatives, many of which are being developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, reflect a strategic effort to sustain momentum in infrastructure growth.

Challenges and Criticisms: Addressing the Past

While celebrating UP’s transformation, CM Yogi did not shy away from addressing past shortcomings. During the inauguration, he criticized the previous Samajwadi Party (SP) government, accusing it of mismanaging projects and having links to questionable entities. “In 2016, they floated tenders for a 110-meter-wide expressway, but those involved looted the project and now pretend to be honest,” he said, highlighting the inefficiencies that plagued earlier efforts.

Such critiques underscore the Yogi government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. By completing projects like the Gorakhpur Link Expressway and ensuring safety measures like 24/7 patrolling, the administration is working to rebuild trust and deliver tangible results.

The Road Ahead for UP’s Expressway Hub

Looking forward, UP’s expressway hub is poised to drive economic growth and regional integration. The state is creating a land bank of 30,000 acres along its expressways, signaling plans for industrial and commercial development. This could attract investments, create jobs, and position UP as a key player in India’s economic landscape.

Additionally, the expressway hub supports UP’s tourism sector, particularly religious and spiritual tourism. By linking key sites, the state is enhancing access for pilgrims and tourists, further boosting the economy. The synergy of infrastructure, economic opportunity, and cultural preservation is setting UP apart as a model of holistic development.

A New Era for Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh’s journey from a Bimaru state to an expressway hub is a story of vision, determination, and execution. Under CM Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, the state has not only built roads but also paved the way for a brighter future. The Gorakhpur Link Expressway, with its promise of faster travel, economic growth, and regional connectivity, is a shining example of this transformation. As UP continues to expand its expressway network, it is rewriting its narrative—one mile at a time.