CM Yogi Inaugurates ₹7,283 Cr Gorakhpur Link Expressway in Azamgarh

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