On June 20, 2025, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the Gorakhpur Link Expressway in Azamgarh, marking a significant milestone in the state’s infrastructure development. Constructed at a cost of over ₹7,283 crore, the 91.35 km expressway is part of the government’s vision to position U.P. as an ‘Expressway State’ and accelerate regional connectivity, investment, and industrial growth.
Why in News?
The Gorakhpur Link Expressway, linking key districts like Azamgarh, Sant Kabir Nagar, Ambedkar Nagar, and Gorakhpur, was inaugurated as part of U.P.’s broader push to transform itself from a ‘BIMARU’ State to a model of infrastructural and economic revival. The project highlights the ongoing efforts under the ‘double-engine government’ to boost connectivity and regional development in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Key Features of the Gorakhpur Link Expressway
- Length: 91.35 km
- Cost: ₹7,283 crore
- Inaugurated by: CM Yogi Adityanath on June 20, 2025
- Districts Benefited: Azamgarh, Gorakhpur, Sant Kabir Nagar, Ambedkar Nagar
- Connectivity: Provides seamless connection to Purvanchal Expressway and other major corridors
Objectives & Significance
- Accelerate regional development and investment opportunities
- Enhance road connectivity in eastern U.P. to promote tourism and trade
- Boost employment in local economies
- Support logistics, agriculture, and industrial sectors
Chief Minister’s Key Statements
- “U.P. is no longer a BIMARU state; it is now an ‘emerging growth engine’ for the country.”
- “Azamgarh has transformed from an identity crisis to a symbol of courage.”
- “Post-2017, the state has seen mafia-free, riot-free governance enabling infrastructure to thrive.”
- Criticism of past regimes: Development was blocked by corruption and criminal elements
Context & Background
BIMARU States: Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh—historically underdeveloped
The state is now home to three major operational expressways,
- Purvanchal Expressway – 340 km
- Bundelkhand Expressway – 300 km
- Gorakhpur Link Expressway – 91.35 km
Work is ongoing on six more expressways, indicating a strategic shift in infrastructure-led growth
Summary/Static | Details |
Why in the news? | CM Yogi Inaugurates Gorakhpur Express Way |
Project | Gorakhpur Link Expressway |
Inaugurated By | CM Yogi Adityanath |
Length | 91.35 km |
Cost | ₹7,283 crore |
Key Beneficiary Districts | Azamgarh, Gorakhpur, Sant Kabir Nagar, Ambedkar Nagar |
Significance | Regional development, connectivity, end of BIMARU tag |