PTC Web Desk: Fresh cracks have appeared on a repaired section of the Ganga Expressway in Uttar Pradesh, raising new questions over the condition of the recently inaugurated highway. The development comes days after a deep crater opened on another part of the expressway following heavy rainfall.

The latest cracks were reported on a stretch near Unnao, where soil settlement and erosion had earlier caused damage. The affected portion was repaired through patchwork carried out by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The fresh damage has now triggered a political attack from Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav.

In a social media post, Yadav warned commuters, saying, “Beware your life is in danger!” He also alleged that the cracks reflected corruption in the construction of the project and described it as a serious threat to public safety.

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Cracks raise questions over road quality

The appearance of cracks soon after repair has renewed concerns about the durability of the expressway, especially during the monsoon season. The issue has also brought attention to drainage and soil stability along different sections of the highway. Heavy rainfall has already caused damage at more than one location, making the condition of vulnerable stretches a matter of concern.

10-metre crater opened earlier

On August 18, a large crater reportedly opened near kilometre 421 on the Meerut-Prayagraj carriageway. Heavy rain caused a portion of the road and the adjoining embankment to wash away.

The incident raised questions about the expressway's ability to handle intense rainfall and whether drainage arrangements were adequate in vulnerable areas.

Earlier damage reported near Unnao

This is not the first time the Unnao section has come under scrutiny. In July, an approach road leading to the Sonic toll plaza was damaged after heavy rain.

Soil erosion affected the embankment, while a part of the carriageway also collapsed. Repair work and patching were later undertaken on the damaged section.

Ganga Expressway project

The 594-km Ganga Expressway is a six-lane, access-controlled highway connecting Meerut with Prayagraj. It passes through 12 districts of Uttar Pradesh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the expressway on April 29. The project, built at a reported cost of Rs 36,230 crore, was planned to significantly reduce travel time between Meerut and Prayagraj, from around 12 hours to nearly six hours.

With fresh cracks now appearing on a repaired stretch, concerns over construction quality, maintenance and the impact of heavy monsoon rainfall are likely to remain in focus.