According to an official survey, the highway currently carries nearly 38,000 light and heavy vehicles per day, with traffic volumes rising steadily over the past 15 years. Officials warned that without timely expansion, the route could face severe congestion and increased accident risks.
To address these concerns, the NHAI Lucknow unit has submitted a detailed project proposal to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, and final approval is now awaited to begin construction.
One of the key advantages of this project is that no new land acquisition will be required. The existing highway corridor already has sufficient land on both sides to accommodate the six-lane expansion. This will significantly reduce costs, as land compensation often exceeds construction expenses, and will allow the project to progress swiftly once approvals are secured.
Officials estimate that construction can be completed within 12 to 18 months, given the absence of land acquisition hurdles. The NHAI has designated the project as a priority initiative, with the tendering process expected to commence immediately after receiving the green light from the ministry.
The expansion aims to improve road safety, reduce travel time, and ensure smoother vehicle movement between Lucknow and Sitapur for years to come.
Additionally, changes are planned for the Mampur–Itauja toll plaza on the Sitapur highway. Currently managed by a private operator, its contract will expire in April 2026, after which the NHAI will take direct control.
A new procurement process will be launched for toll operations, supported by a fresh vehicle count survey. Plans are also underway to upgrade scanners and enhance internet connectivity to minimise delays and long queues at the toll gates.
The Lucknow–Sitapur expansion forms part of NHAI’s broader strategy to modernise high-traffic corridors, strengthen road infrastructure, and deliver safer, faster intercity connectivity across India.
