Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway: Routes, Toll, Travel Guide & More!

Travelling between Lucknow and Kanpur has become quicker than ever with the inauguration of the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath jointly inaugurated the six-lane access-controlled expressway on Monday, along with three National Highway projects worth more than ₹4,850 crore.

The newly opened expressway is expected to transform travel between Uttar Pradesh's two largest cities by significantly reducing congestion on the existing NH 27 route while offering a faster and safer driving experience. The journey, which often takes well over an hour depending on traffic, is now expected to be completed in 45 to 50 minutes. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said the travel time could come down even further during smooth traffic conditions.

The 63-km Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway is a six-lane, access-controlled expressway connecting Shaheed Path in Lucknow with Azad Marg near the Ganga Bridge in Kanpur. Built by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the new corridor is designed to reduce travel time between the two cities to around 45–50 minutes,

The expressway has a design speed of 120 kmph, with an operational speed limit of 100 kmph for cars and light vehicles. It features a barrier-free electronic toll collection system using FASTag, RFID, and ANPR cameras, eliminating the need for conventional toll plazas. The toll for cars has been fixed at ₹275 for a one-way trip and ₹415 for a return journey completed within 24 hours. Vehicles without a valid FASTag will be charged according to applicable NHAI rules.

As an access-controlled highway, the expressway is open only to authorised motor vehicles. Two-wheelers, three-wheelers, tractors, and other slow-moving vehicles are not permitted, ensuring smoother traffic flow and enhanced road safety.

Calling the project a major milestone for Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said improved road infrastructure not only shortens distances but also creates new opportunities for investment and economic growth. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari described the expressway as a historic step towards strengthening connectivity in the state.

The new expressway is expected to benefit daily commuters, commercial traffic, and logistics while strengthening connectivity between Lucknow, Unnao, and Kanpur and integrating seamlessly with Uttar Pradesh's expanding expressway network. With the expressway now open to traffic, daily commuters, business travellers, and tourists can expect a smoother, faster, and more convenient journey between Lucknow and Kanpur, making it one of Uttar Pradesh's most significant infrastructure projects in recent years.