Roughly two weeks after its high-profile inauguration, the expressway's upper asphalt surface caved/cracked over a stretch of about 40 metres; viral photos later showed pedestal fans deployed on the road to dry out rain-soaked patchwork repairs, drawing sharp political criticism.
On record
The official record states: "NHAI Project Director Nakul Prakash Verma said "only the upper surface was affected over a stretch of about 40 metres," describing it as surface slippage rather than structural failure, and that "such technical issue may occur at some locations" on long asphalt roads."
Filed as "Under repeat repair (cracked ~2 weeks after opening)" and dated to Inaugurated July 13, 2026, this entry sits under the "₹4,200–4,700 crore" line of the public accounts.
What to expect
- A surface that renegotiates its shape with every monsoon.
- Potholes deep enough to have their own microclimate.
- Freshly laid tar, laid with real optimism.
- A resurfacing crew that will, in time, return.
Sourcing
2 public sources — news reports, RTI replies and civic archives — corroborate this entry. The citation trail is listed below for anyone who would like to follow up with the department concerned.
“The DPR was detailed. The project, less so.”— Blunderlust Editorial Desk
Sources
- https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/uttar-pradesh/rs-4200-crore-expressway-develops-cracks-days-after-inauguration-in-up/
- https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/fans-used-to-fry-lucknow-kanpur-expressway-as-rain-exposes-road-damage-akhilesh-targets-cm-yogi-adityanath-govt
Visitor reviews
“Came to see whether the photos online were exaggerating; they were not. It really does not disappoint.”
“Went for a morning walk and accidentally did a site inspection. The posterity in the photos will thank me.”
“Booked a guide who spent the whole time apologising for it. It is exactly what the file number says it is.”