Ganga Expressway Cuts Travel Time, Boosts Transport and Tourism Businesses in UP
The Ganga Expressway, a roughly 594-kilometre six-lane route from Meerut to Prayagraj passing through 12 districts, is emerging as a driver of economic activity in Uttar Pradesh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the expressway in Hardoi on April 29, 2026. The project was built at a cost of about Rs 36,230 crore.
Transporters say the road has made freight movement between western and eastern UP faster and cheaper. Shiv Kumar Yadav of Goodluck Transport in Meerut says it has reduced overall travel time and fuel and operating costs, helping goods reach markets on schedule. Amit Sharma of Upkar Transport in Saharanpur says the journey from Saharanpur to Prayagraj, which earlier took 20 to 22 hours, can now be completed in 11 to 12 hours, despite toll payments.
The tour and travel sector has also benefited. Mulak Singh of Jyoti Tour and Travel in Meerut says passenger journeys to Prayagraj have become easier, benefiting taxi, cab and tour package operators. Operators are adding new destinations, including religious tourism and group trips, to their packages.
The expressway connects Meerut, Hapur, Bulandshahr, Amroha, Sambhal, Budaun, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Unnao, Rae Bareli, Pratapgarh and Prayagraj. The state government views improved connectivity as a way to attract investment and reduce regional imbalances.
